Economic development is main topic at Wednesday’s discussion with Columbia councilman Waterman

By Brian Hauswirth
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Columbia residents from throughout the city are invited to attend Wednesday evening’s “let’s talk local” discussion at Gentry middle school.

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Columbia fifth ward city councilman Donald Waterman (file photo courtesy of city of Columbia website)

Fifth ward Columbia councilman Don Waterman will host tonight’s meeting from 5:30 to 7 at Gentry middle school and it’s open to all residents from every ward. The main topic will be economic development with Columbia Regional Economic Development Incorporated (REDI), the city’s economic development partner.

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EquipmentShare co-owners Jabbok and Willy Schlacks joined Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe for April’s ribbon-cutting ceremony (April 9, 2025 file photo courtesy of EquipmentShare’s Amy Susan)

REDI has been involved in the return of United Airlines to Columbia Regional Airport (COU). REDI also played a key role in landing EquipmentShare’s $100-million new headquarters near I-70’s Lake of the Woods exit. The city of Columbia and Missouri beat out Alabama, Louisiana and other locations for the massive facility.

EquipmentShare has about 700 employees in Boone County.