
About Us
Advancing Growth
The AAEDC is a 501c(3) nonprofit with the mission to advance economic growth in the Ashland area through the attraction of new business, retention of existing businesses, and promotion of the area by providing support that enables development and enhances the community region.
Meet the Board
- Timothy O’Brien – President
- Robert Bundy – Vice President
- David Lutton – Treasurer
- Joanie Swanson – At large member
- Nolan Welch – At large member
- Thomas Judds – At large member
- Jason Libal – AGPS School Representative
- Chuck Niemeyer – City of Ashland Representative
- Rod Reisen – Chamber of Commerce Representative
Meet the Executive Director
Caleb Fjone
2021-2023 Strategic Plan
1
Goal One
Commercial Development and Capital Investment
A strong, diverse local economy is the backbone of a livable, growing community. Strong, vibrant communities encourage local enterprise that serves the needs of residents and promotes stable employment.
2
Goal Two
Marketing and Advocacy
A plan to grow awareness of AAEDC is an investment. Growing understanding of the organization will bring new voices to the conversation and cultivate an appreciation for your efforts.
3
Goal Three
Structure, Membership, and Organizational
A community with a sound economic development program is likely to succeed. To ensure accountability and transparency for its membership, the AAEDC must have a thorough approach for structure and its membership.
Ashland History
The first settlers in Ashland, Nebraska, came in 1856. By 1858, Ashland was a supply depot for freighters and emigrants. The town began to develop in 1863 with the construction of a general store and a mill. Ashland became the first county seat of Saunders County and held that position until 1873 when the position went to Wahoo, Nebraska. A courthouse was built in 1870, but the property was sold in 1878. Ashland got its name when the legislature changed the names of Saline Ford and Flora City to Ashland in 1866. The town was formally organized on February 2, 1870.
Ashland became a boomtown as soon as the railroad traveled through the town on its way from Plattsmouth to Lincoln. It became a three-county railhead for immigrants. Lumber, coal, tools, merchandise, harness stores, livery stables, hotels and groceries were big sale items.
The town continued to see growth with a 14.8% increase in population from 1990 to 2010. In the Decennial Census Reports, the community marked a 19.1 percent growth rate between 2000 and 2010. In an era that sees many small towns struggle with growth, this is excellent news.
City of Ashland – Official Zoning Map
Click image to enlarge map
Today, Ashland benefits from its proximity to Interstate 80 and the cities of Omaha and Lincoln. Ashland is a tourism community because of its rural character. The push for economic development as a community priority to strategic location has primed a building boom in the last decade.
Let's Grow Together
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