MADISON, Neb. — Former Norfolk city administrator Andy Colvin has been appointed as the Economic Development Director for the City of Madison. The appointment, made during the city council meeting on August 11, follows the approval of an interlock agreement by Madison County and the City of Battle Creek on July 15.

With the agreement in place, Colvin said, "The focus will be on housing, commercial and industrial growth, and quality of life investments in these communities to retain population and hopefully have more people locate to Madison County and the Norfolk region."

Also under the agreement, officials said, "The county will benefit from taxes on each acre of developed land within city limits, which will allow for the expansion of county services to rural areas, including road and bridge improvements and law enforcement, strengthening agriculture." A robust agricultural economy is expected to boost spending and services within those cities, driving up sales tax collections that enhance services and overall quality of life.

Colvin's compensation will be funded through annual contributions of $126,000 from the City of Madison, along with $42,000 each from Battle Creek and Madison County.

The interlock agreement, set to commence in October, has no official end date. It’s renewed annually unless the city agrees to change or modify the agreement. It currently spans one year and includes a provision for review by the county attorney to ensure any necessary modifications. It also stipulates a six-month notice period should either party wish to terminate the agreement. If both parties remain satisfied, the agreement contains provisions for a potential three-year extension, paving the way for sustained progress and development.