Freedom Works Here.
Tucked perfectly at the bottom of a valley, about 15 minutes north of Interstate-90, off exit 143, is Philip. The county seat of Haakon County, Philip is a bustling town to over 760 residents.
Doreen Vetter, Philip’s Community Development Director, said that economic development is very important to the community.
“It’s about moving projects along,” she said.
City Administrator Brittany Smith explained that economic development is crucial to Philip because for a while, the community was complacent. Once the city saw the need to help and promote local businesses, the city joined forces with the economic development corporation and chamber of commerce to create the Community Development Director position.
Philip’s largest employer, Philip Health Services (PHS), serves a very broad geographic area with vital services such as emergency room, nursing home, assisted living, and other much needed areas of care. With approximately 150 employees, patients can be supported in their hometown, rather than needing to travel hundreds of miles for care. And, as Philip’s largest employer, the economic growth that PHS brings to the community is evident throughout the town.
Maureen Cadwell, CEO of PHS, noted that part of the success of economic development in any town revolves around the services that community provides.
The continued success of Philip can be seen through many areas in town. From a proposed housing development that will include 16 residential lots to multi-generational businesses and new businesses that are expanding, Philip is not only surviving, but today, the community is thriving.
“Philip cares about its community and its members,” said Mayor Brit Miller. “It’s a great community to raise kids and find a career.”
