GOWRIE — Community involvement has long been a significant focus for Kevin Black of Gowrie.

Black, who is the chief executive officer of Heartland Bank, is also involved with the Gowrie Development Commission (GDC), serving as a board representative for the GDC on the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance and the housing committee for the GDC.

“Being involved in the community allows me to be part of solving problems, addressing challenges, promoting growth while steering positive change and direction for Gowrie,” said Black.

In his roles with the GDC, Black has helped to address long-term planning for growth and investment in the Gowrie area, especially in providing affordable housing for current and future residents.

“Housing has been an area of focus for the past seven years,” said Black. “To address housing, the GDC, in cooperation with the city, set up an incentive program through a newly created TIF program. Twelve new homes have been built within the past six years, with some of the homeowners using the TIF incentive. Currently, the developer, Origin Hopes, has three newly constructed homes for sale. We are excited to continue using TIF financing to encourage other investments within Gowrie.”

Helping to welcome new residents and keep long-time residents in Gowrie are updated and new amenities to town, including a new fire station, ambulance facility, swimming pool, golf course, and grocery store.

“Gowrie has amazing people who love their community and stand ready to make things happen,” said Black. “We have so much to offer including a great school system, skating rink, a new bike and walking path for recreation, and Gowrie is a safe place to live.”