Proof of Economic Development Investment is Clear in Tonganoxie
Economic development is an invaluable tool for job creation, industry investment, and population growth. While evidence of economic projects can be found across Leavenworth County, the City of Tonganoxie is one of the best examples of what happens when communities invest in themselves. New companies moving to the region, entrepreneurs growing into successful businesses, and single and multi-family housing developments directly result from Tonganoxie’s investment in economic development.
See the fingerprints of economic development in the area. Here are a few ways Tonganoxie is changing for the better.
Hill’s Pet Nutrition Brings 80 Jobs to Tonganoxie
One of Tonganoxie’s most visible economic development projects is the Hill’s Pet Nutrition expansion plant, which directly created more than 80 jobs in the region. This is the third pet food processing plant opened by Hill’s Pet Nutrition in Kansas, and one of many facilities across the United States and Europe.
The City of Tonganoxie worked hard to bring Hill’s Pet Nutrition to its current location with the assistance of the Leavenworth County Port Authority (LCPA). Kansas has 105 counties and 627 incorporated towns, many of which would have loved a new manufacturer. The City competed against countless other communities across the United States.
Good economic development teams create value propositions for businesses and work closely with utility partners to make expansion projects seamless. The successful attraction of Hill’s Pet Nutrition speaks to the quality of the economic development team and highlights how future investment may come to Tonganoxie as a result.
Small Businesses Are Growing in the Urban Hess Business Center
While LCPA’s essential goal is to bring major employers to the region, the organization also supports existing small businesses and entrepreneurs. One project that has significantly impacted the area is the development of the Urban Hess Business Center (UHBC).
With nearly 92,000 square feet of space across multiple buildings, the UHBC has been an ideal opportunity for entrepreneurs transitioning from at-home businesses to commercial storefronts. Many companies have expanded and thrived because of the spaces offered at UHBC.
Now entering its second decade, the UHBC is home to more than seven businesses, including HMC Performance Coatings, Mid Star Lab, DL Granite & Design, Wilson Glass, Industrial Service Technologies (IST), and County Road Brewing. The businesses in the park provide more than 100 jobs to the region.
Additionally, the park generated $252,362 in property taxes for 2025. Residents who don’t work for or use these businesses still benefit from their presence because of this tax revenue.
Tonganoxie’s Population Has Grown 10% in Five Years
Economic development fosters population growth as communities create jobs and build desirable neighborhoods. The City of Tonganoxie’s financial success is evident in its population growth. A 10% population increase is impressive for any community and speaks to opportunities found here. The affordable housing options, good schools, and rural lifestyle appeal to families that want more room to spread out.
Tonganoxie has a longer commute time than other parts of Leavenworth County. On average, residents drive 29 minutes to work in nearby Kansas City, Lawrence, and Topeka. This means there is still room for investment in economic development. Instead of requiring residents to drive into Kansas City or other parts of the metro area, Tonganoxie can continue attracting business investment and fostering job creation. When more companies move to the area, residents won’t have to drive as far.
More people than ever are choosing to live in Tonganoxie. Funding economic development can increase the jobs, amenities, and opportunities here.
Large Investments Lead to Small Business Development
People often move to new communities because they are excited about the amenities within them. This is the future of Tonganoxie. The opening of Hill’s Pet Nutrition can attract workers and their families, who can then open businesses and contribute to the greater community. Hill’s has already attracted one of its suppliers, DSM-Firmenich, which will begin production later this year. New restaurants, coffee shops, stores, and service providers can set up shop in Tonganoxie because their loved ones work here. This increases the amenities available to residents so they don’t have to travel as far to get what they need.
Small business owners are also job creators. Between 2013 and 2023, small businesses accounted for 55% of all jobs created in the United States. Not every company that opens in Tonganoxie will hire 80 employees, but several small businesses, each hiring a few people, can have just as significant an impact.
Economic development extends beyond enterprise business attraction. It also involves entrepreneur support and investment. Today’s new businesses are tomorrow’s legacy companies.
Tonganoxie is Growing Through Economic Development
Residents who want to see Leavenworth County grow can support economic development in their community. Tonganoxie is proof that investing in business attraction works and boosts the overall economy. Enterprise attraction can send ripple effects through a community, leading to small business growth and new neighbors.
The future can be found through economic development. Learn more about the efforts of the Leavenworth County Port Authority and how they benefit you.