Panasonic deal was great for Kansas. Here's what leaders can do to ensure continued success.

Last month, Gov. Laura Kelly announced Panasonic will soon break ground on a massive electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant in De Soto.

This is the largest private investment in Kansas’ history and should result in thousands of new jobs for people from the surrounding area, including Shawnee County. It is also indicative of a larger sea change in how businesses across the globe are looking at Kansas.

Kansas is storming back from the disruption caused by the pandemic. We have the lowest unemployment rate in the state’s recorded history (2.3%) and have been nationally recognized for the state’s leadership in job creation and economic development.

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Panasonic’s announcement is resounding validation that we are on the right track and our future is as bright as it has ever been.

Following are some things our elected leaders could do to keep up the momentum.

First, support small businesses. In June, Gov. Kelly signed a bipartisan law that invested $50 million in small businesses hurt by COVID-19. More is needed. And we should all commit ourselves to shopping local and supporting small businesses that are still recovering from the pandemic.

Second, invest in expanding our workforce. Extremely low unemployment is certainly preferable to the alternative, but it does mean many businesses are struggling to find the workers they need.

The Legislature has expanded tax credits for businesses that provide child care to employees, making it easier for parents to reengage in the workforce, and the Department of Commerce has expanded internship and workforce development programs. We encourage legislators to continue knocking down the hurdles that prevent people from finding and holding down a job.

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And finally, continue keeping up with business’ evolving needs.

In February, a bipartisan group of legislators modernized Kansas’ economic development toolbox by passing APEX, a suite of flexible incentives to help Kansas compete for the biggest business opportunities. The efforts, which were the subject of an explanatory piece I submitted to this paper in February, clearly paid off.

APEX is a tool Kansas needs to compete at the highest levels internationally, but it was designed with a short shelf life. When the Legislature returns next year, we encourage lawmakers to consider extending APEX, so we can continue building on the success of Panasonic.

We can thank our state leaders for creating a current business climate that is conducive to growth and investment. There is still much to be done. Let’s keep up the good work by supporting local entrepreneurs, expanding our workforce, and continuing to show that Kansas is open for business.

Curtis Sneden is the president of the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce.