Gov. Mike Kehoe highlights economy, growth at Cape State of the Community luncheon

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe joined local leaders Thursday to discuss economic development and priorities for Cape Girardeau County during the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce’s third annual State of the Community Luncheon.

The event, held at the Drury Plaza Hotel Conference Center, featured Kehoe alongside Cape Girardeau Mayor Robbie Guard, Cape County Presiding Commissioner Clint Tracy and Southeast Missouri State University President Dr. Brad Hodson. Each shared updates on their organizations and outlined priorities for the coming year.

Gov. Kehoe said the state’s economy is moving in the right direction while praising Cape Girardeau’s continued growth during the State of the Community luncheon Wednesday.

Speaking with KBSI following the event, Kehoe said Missouri’s balanced budget and business-friendly policies are helping create opportunities across the state.

“We’re grateful to have a balanced budget and making sure we make those good decisions for Missourians,” Kehoe said. “It’s their money. It’s not the government’s money.”

Kehoe said keeping government out of the way of businesses allows companies to expand and create jobs.

During the luncheon, Kehoe also reflected on his return to Cape Girardeau, describing the visit as a homecoming because of the relationships he has built in southeast Missouri over the years.

“We’ve gotten to know a lot of good friends down here, a lot of great businesses, a lot of great educational partners,” Kehoe said. “A lot of great things going on here with the university, with your school systems, a lot of really cool things happening.”

Kehoe said communities like Cape Girardeau play an important role in Missouri’s continued economic success through their partnerships, education systems and business development.

The governor also discussed issues expected to appear on Missouri’s August ballot, including Amendment 5, saying he hopes voters will support the measure.

The annual luncheon provides community members with updates from regional leaders on the economy, education, local government and county initiatives while highlighting priorities for the year ahead.