Economic Development in Howell County
Howell County at a Glance
As the largest city in Missouri within a 100-mile radius, West Plains is the trade center for south=central region of the state. More than 150,000 people shop in the area. Retail sales have averaged a 6% growth rate annually, pumping 225 million dollars into the local economy.
West Plains Top Employers
* Ozarks Healthcare
* West Plains Schools
* AirMedCare Network
* Leonardo DRS, Land Systems
* MSU-West Plains
* Caterpillar, Inc.
* Royal Oak Enterprises
* Armstrong/Bruce
* Arlee Home Fashions
* Timberland Forest Products, Inc.
Transportation
Motor Freight Carriers: Beaufort Transfer, Quick Trans, Yellow Freight systems, Inc., Roadway Water Service.
Nearest Public Airport: West Plains Municipal is only 9 miles with a paved runway and private aircraft storage. The local airport also has fuel available an a lighted runway, but does not have aircraft maintenance.
U.S. Highways: 2, Missouri Highways: 3
Commercial Railroads and Rail Service: Burlington Northern-Sante Fe with one freight stop per day.
*Distance to nearest piggy-back service is 105 miles
Nearest Navigable River is the Mississippi River with a channel depth of 19. The nearest barge service is 190 miles away with a two day down river timeline to New Orleans.
Taxes
Most personal property is assessed at 33.33% of its value as specified by the statues of Missouri.
Real Estate is assessed at 19% for residential, 12% for agricultural and 32% of commercial market value as appraised by the Assessor office.
FIRE PROTECTION SERVICES
Administrative Staff: 2
Volunteer Staff (Chaplain): 1
Full Time Staff: 13
Part Time Staff: 3
Paid on Call: 4
Fire Insurance Rating Inside City Limits: 3
Make it happen here!
Business people with vision come to West Plains seeking the remarkable opportunities for expansion, diversification and progress. In other words, they come here to make it happen!
A broad range of industrial spaces are ready for occupancy or construction. These sites feature paved and lighted street, utilities, and easy access to highways, railroad sidings and the airport.
Utilities and Co-ops work together to provide ample electricity at exceptionally affordable prices. The area provides both natural gas and propane. Known as the land of the big springs, deep wells provide some of the freshest water you’ll ever taste. The city installed an 11 million dollar peak shaving generator to keep up with business and residential growth. To aid you in finding specific tax information, or for more details on starting a new business in West Plains, contact the Chamber office at 417-256-4433 or info@wpchamber.com
