PerryNext Panel Discussion

A panel discussion hosted by the PerryNext coalition will take place at La Poste in downtown Perry on Wednesday, May 22nd starting at 5:30pm. Topics will include a pork industry update, a recap on the  PerryNext response since the announcement of Tyson closing, an overview of community resources, and what's being done to address workforce issues and business attraction. 

The panel will be moderated by Dr. Tom Burkgren, Perry leader and subject matter expert in agricultural economics and community development. This discussion will focus on the following key topics: 

• Pork Industry Update: Current trends, challenges, and opportunities within the pork industry led by Dr. Burkgren.  
• PerryNext Response: Insights into the creation of PerryNext and the proactive response to the recent Tyson closure announcement and its impact on local businesses and stakeholders led by Mayor Dirk Cavanaugh and City Administrator Sven Peterson
• Addressing Workforce Issues: What strategies and initiatives are deployed and aimed at addressing workforce challenges and fostering opportunities for retention, led by Chad Pierce, Iowa Workforce Development and Central IowaWorks and Eric Kress, Central Iowa Workforce Development Board
• Community Resources: Highlighting available resources and support to those impacted by the Tyson closure, led by Jocelyn Monzon, Dallas County Hospital 
• Business Attraction and Marketing Efforts: Discussion on state and local-level initiatives to attract investment, promote economic growth, and effectively market the community's available sites for industry, led by Rick Peterson, Iowa Economic Development Authority.  

The community is encouraged to attend this informative panel discussion to learn about efforts addressing the upcoming closure of the Perry Tyson plant.  

PerryNext represents the collective effort of city, county and state officials, local businesses and community leaders dedicated to addressing immediate concerns of those affected by the plant closure. PerryNext is the trusted resource for important information regarding the community, business attraction efforts, media responses, workforce resources and social issues. This coalition will also work on laying the groundwork for long-term economic recovery and revitalization.