In the heart of DeSoto, city officials gathered under the bright lights of the council chamber, discussing the future of economic development in the area. The meeting on July 10, 2025, revealed promising news for local employment, particularly from two major employers, Allied Stone and Solar Turbines, both of which are set to expand their workforce significantly.

Allied Stone, one of DeSoto's largest employers, announced plans to increase its staff by 200 positions, bringing its total employment to approximately 460. This surge in local jobs is a welcome boost for the community, as officials noted that these positions are concentrated within a 1,500-acre business park that houses the city's top employers. Solar Turbines, while slightly smaller in headcount, remains a vital player in the local economy.

However, the meeting also highlighted challenges in attracting new development commitments. City officials acknowledged that while they aim to secure at least $100 million in new investments, they currently lack firm commitments from developers. The conversation turned to the complexities of zoning and the necessity of partnerships with private developers to move projects forward. Officials emphasized that without a willing partner, the city cannot realize its ambitious development goals.

The timeline for proposed zoning changes is set for July and August, but officials expressed the need for a strategic approach to attract developers. They discussed the possibility of initiating design work for new projects even before securing full financial commitments, recognizing the inherent risks involved. The city has already acquired key properties, including the Community Missionary Baptist Church, to facilitate future developments.

As the meeting concluded, city leaders remained optimistic about the potential for growth, understanding that collaboration with the private sector is crucial. They are exploring various financing options, including revenue bonds, to support necessary infrastructure improvements. The path ahead may be fraught with challenges, but the commitment to fostering economic development in DeSoto remains strong, with hopes that the right partnerships will soon emerge to bring these plans to fruition.