Kingston Springs issues RFP to develop long-term economic plan

The Town of Kingston Springs has issued a request for proposal (RFP) seeking a professional consultant to help craft a comprehensive economic development strategic plan that will guide community growth and investment for the next five years and beyond.

According to the RFP, the plan will outline policies for sustainable economic development while preserving the small-town character and natural beauty that define Kingston Springs. The consultant will be responsible for assessing the town’s economic strengths and weaknesses, identifying opportunities for local business growth and working with town leaders and residents to set a long-term vision for development.

The initiative follows discussions earlier this year about forming an Economic Development Task Force, first proposed by Commissioner Michael Coldwell in May. That group was envisioned as a temporary advisory body to help the town assess its strengths and challenges and to develop recommendations for long-term financial and community planning.

“This is a new board — 60% of us are new,” Coldwell said during the May 15 Board of Commissioners meeting. “We’ve had limited opportunities to think broadly about where Kingston Springs is headed. This is the first step to help set a compass for the years to come.”

The town’s RFP calls for a five-year economic development strategy supported by data-driven market analysis, community engagement and actionable goals for enhancing local business opportunities and tourism. The plan is expected to explore new revenue streams, support existing retail and dining establishments and recommend marketing and promotion strategies to attract the right kinds of businesses to Kingston Springs.

Town officials have emphasized the importance of planning for sustainable growth that maintains the community’s character while encouraging thoughtful economic development.

Once a consultant is selected, the project will move forward under the guidance of the Kingston Springs Board of Commissioners and City Manager John Lawless, with input from local stakeholders and residents.

“The goal,” Coldwell said, “isn’t to change the identity of Kingston Springs — it’s to define it, and ensure that we have a plan that keeps our community strong for generations to come.”

The deadline to respond to the RFP is Thursday, Nov. 13 at 4 p.m.