Clinton County seeks resident input on rural resource center

PLATTSBURG, Mo. (KQTV) -- A nonprofit organization in northwest Missouri is asking residents for feedback as it moves forward with plans to build a multi-purpose rural resource center and library.

The Clinton County Initiative announced it received a USDA Rural Business Development Grant to fund part of the planning phase.

The proposed center would house small business and educational programs, remote worker spaces, telehealth rooms, a commercial kitchen and library services.

A feasibility study completed in early 2025 found strong support across the county but raised questions requiring further research, the group said.

"Letters were received from public officials and business owners in every town in the county last spring pledging their support toward this planning phase on all aspects of a rural resource center," said Joe Gagnon, president of CCI.

A five-member volunteer library district board has been meeting monthly to study Missouri library laws. Library services cannot be established until voters approve a tax levy.

Our vision for a library is so much more than stacks of books – we are delighted to see that many others see the need for a multi-purpose resource center focused on what defines a great rural life,” said Christel Gollnick, chair of the Clinton County Library District Board.

The group's next meeting is Oct. 27 at the Community Courtyard in Plattsburg. The agenda includes board elections and an overview of the grant and six teams created to fulfill it.

For more information about this nonprofit organization or how to get involved, visit https://www.maximizenwmo.org/clinton-county