Ray Kroll, who was recently hired as executive director of the Karnes County Economic and Community Development Corporation, predicts a bright future for Karnes County.

"The history of Karnes County is a gold mine and its location is very desirable with San Antonio, the number one vacation spot in Texas, less than an hour away and Corpus Christi with the coast’s sandy beaches a little further south of us," Kroll said.

"With the interest we already have found and a solid community effort behind us to bring in more housing developments, businesses and opportunities for all, the future is indeed bright and can be very productive."

Kroll grew up in China Springs which is a small town located near Waco. Kroll’s educational background is in the areas of finance and accounting and he also has experience and skills in management, marketing and real estate.

"I am very excited about the chance to work for the betterment of Karnes County, not only by working to bring new businesses to the area, but also to improve the quality of life for all who make Karnes County home," he said.

Kroll said plans to build a new hotel near the Wal-Mart in Kenedy and other planned economic development efforts are continuing to make progress.

"The company building the hotel is also building one each in Pleasanton, Jourdanton and Floresville and will be using the same crew to build this one," Kroll said. "So when those are finished they will start on the one planned for here."

He is very enthusiastic about another major plan that is in the works and hopes to be able to announce it to the public soon. Also, there will be an opportunity for those interested in starting their own small business or who already have a business to get assistance and expert advice from the Small Business Development Center.

"This is one of my three major goals and part of my plan for action," Kroll said. "Joe Humphrey, an expert in teaching what it takes to start a business from start to finish, will be scheduling workshops for all interested," he said. "So, if you’ve always wanted to have a business of your own, he will hold classes at this office facility on the third Friday of every month. We are hoping to get this started in September."

"The second major goal is to have something for youth leadership training," he added.

Kroll said he believes there needs to be a program for high school age students, preferably at their sophomore level, who need an incentive to be prepared for their future.

And his third goal is to get the whole community involved.

"Growth is coming whether we want it to or not, and we can either have a part in its planning or let it happen haphazardly," Kroll said. "So no matter your age, your interest, your ideas for our community or if you just want to be a part of what’s going on in Karnes County, please give me a call or come by the office."

"All are welcome at the County Development Board meetings," Kroll said. "They are scheduled for the third Thursday every other month and the next one will be on August 21 here at our office."

Kroll added that future meetings may be held in different cities within the county.