Today (Wednesday), Carroll County Growth Partnership (CCGP) and Carroll Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kimberly Tiefenthaler announced she will be retiring April 1, 2026. Tiefenthaler, who joined the CCGP and Chamber team in October of 2021, is stepping away after over a decade of work in economic development, and allows 4.5 months for the organizations to plan for the upcoming transition. In a written statement, Tiefenthaler says, “Serving Carroll County and working with our business community, investors, and partners has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I believe in the mission of both organizations, and I’m committed to supporting a smooth transition and helping position the next leader for success. We have important work ahead over the next four months, and I look forward to finishing strong alongside our boards and partners.” She adds the timing of the decision to step aside was right for her personally and professionally and comes following multiple discussions with CCGP and Chamber leadership. Under Tiefenthaler’s direction, the economic development groups refocused their efforts on business retention and expansion, furthering outreach to Carroll County’s outlying communities, and more. Notable highlights during her tenure include the 2023 partnership with the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s (IEDA) Downtown Resource Center, the resultant changes from that assessment to the downtown, such as the relocation of Fusion Dance into the former JCPenney building and significant facade work in the surrounding area, and the opening of HUB 712 in the former Western Iowa Networks (WIN) building in downtown Carroll. That facility was made possible primarily through a $250,000 grant from the International Development Council (IDC) and support from state and local partners. CCGP President Mike Franey says, “Her leadership elevated the visibility of our communities, expanded regional partnerships, and advanced the foundation needed for long-term growth.” Chamber President Ryan Milligan says, “Kimberly’s commitment to business development, community engagement, and organizational strength has made a lasting impact.” The CCGP and Chamber leadership teams are developing a transition plan, and Carroll Broadcasting will bring you more from Tiefenthaler, CCGP, and the Chamber in upcoming newscasts.
