The Carroll County Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC) welcomed approximately 90 community leaders, business partners, and stakeholders to its Annual Luncheon, celebrating recent accomplishments and outlining a strong vision for the future.
Current Board President Anita Werling opened the event, welcoming attendees and introducing Past Board President Bret Rinehart, who presented the 2024–2025 Year in Review.
Rinehart highlighted the significant momentum Carroll County has experienced, including more than $28 million in housing investment, expanded childcare capacity, major industrial developments, and strengthened regional partnerships through READI and the Kankakee Iroquois Regional Planning Commission (KIRPC) agricultural strategy. He also noted the successful navigation of a leadership transition while maintaining progress and positioning the county for continued growth.
Following the review, the CCEDC presented the Community Impact Award to Jake Adams, former CCEDC Executive Director. Adams was recognized for his dedicated service, leadership, and lasting contributions to Carroll County. During his tenure, he advanced key projects, strengthened partnerships, and helped build the foundation for the growth and momentum the county continues to experience today.
Adams now serves as Director of the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs, continuing his commitment to service and leadership across the state.
The program then welcomed guest speaker Eric Sheiss, President and Chief Operating Officer of Indiana Packers Corporation, who shared insights into the company’s future expansion plans and its continued investment in Carroll County.
“Indiana Packers Corporation is proud to be part of Carroll County’s continued growth. We value our long-standing partnership with the Carroll County Economic Development Corporation and remain committed to investing in our workforce, strengthening our operations, and supporting the communities that make our success possible.”
The event concluded with remarks from James Wells, CCEDC Executive Director, who shared a “Looking Forward” presentation outlining the organization’s 2026 Strategic Plan. Wells also noted that the 2026 Strategic Plan was developed in partnership with HWC Engineering, incorporating stakeholder input and data-driven analysis to guide Carroll County’s long-term growth.
Wells emphasized four key focus areas—business development, workforce development, quality of place, and collaboration—while highlighting ongoing and future initiatives in housing, infrastructure, and business support.
He reinforced that Carroll County’s growth is not only continuing, but accelerating, and that through strategic investment and strong partnerships, the county is well-positioned to capture regional opportunities and ensure long-term success.
The CCEDC Annual Luncheon served as both a reflection on progress and a forward-looking call to action—demonstrating the strength of collaboration and the shared commitment to building a vibrant future for Carroll County.
About the Carroll County Economic Development Corporation
The Carroll County Economic Development Corporation works to support business retention and expansion, attract new investment, and enhance the economic vitality and quality of life throughout Carroll County, Indiana.
Board members are Anita Werling, President; Dr. Gregory Norman, Vice-President; Julia Leahy, Secretary; Laurie Brower, Treasurer; Miriam Robeson, Counsel; Bret Rinehart, Immediate Past President; Mike Williams, Jay Bordner, Keith Schultz, Kendal Ross, Kenneth Walton, Joe Moss, Seth Eldridge, Scot Ortman, and Ross Larimore.