![Leadership Message](https://growknox.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Jim-NEW-headshot-150x150.jpg)
Hello everyone. It is hard to believe 2021 is coming to a close. We have enjoyed being able to meet in person again this year (with appropriate COVID protocols in place). Whether it’s our community welcome reception or the annual AUSA convention or the Association of Defense Communities innovation forum, these sorts of gatherings allow us to network, learn, foster partnerships and tell the story of Fort Knox and the Greater Fort Knox Region.
That story continues to be a very positive one. As you can see from this newsletter alone, there is much to celebrate with V Corps’ success, Fort Knox’s DOD leading installation energy program and countless other accolades and accomplishments.
Fort Knox’s continued success and growth also translates to a tremendous economic impact in our communities. The Fort Knox Compatible Use Plan showed, based on the size of its workforce, that Fort Knox is the state’s largest employer. Recent analysis by Fort Knox Garrison calculated Fort Knox’s payroll at $956 million annually. Think about that. That’s almost a billion dollars in spending power in our community.
In addition to having a heart for Soldiers and their families like so many of you, that economic impact is why KRDA is committed to doing all it can to promote and protect Fort Knox. It is by far our region’s greatest economic engine. We thank all of you for your continued support and partnerships that helps our region be as supportive as possible to Fort Knox. Enjoy the holiday season. Here is to an even happier, healthier and more prosperous 2022.
Warm Regards,
Ray and Jim
![<b>Ray Springsteen</b><br><a href="/board-directors-staff/ray-springsteen" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Read Bio</a>](https://growknox.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/rSpringsteen-e1571427097277-150x150.png)
![<b>Jim Iacocca</b><br><em>President/CEO</em><br><a href="/board-directors-staff/jim-iacocca" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Read Bio</a>](https://growknox.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Jim-NEW-headshot-150x150.jpg)
Jim Iacocca
Brig. Gen. (Ret)
Knox Regional Development Alliance