NWKP&C Board

Our team brings a wide range of knowledge and experience to help you find the resources you need. Get to know the people behind our work and discover who can best help you move your project forward!

Deb Minkler is the Executive Director of the Northwest Kansas Planning & Development Commission and Pioneer Country Development Inc., dedicated to transforming the economic landscape across 18 counties. With a rich background in leadership, including roles as the Economic Development Director for Rawlins County and Foundation Director for ACE, Deb has a proven track record in fostering

community growth and engagement.

Having served on the PCDI and NWKPDC boards for five years, she brings valuable insights and experience to her current role. With over 13 years of banking experience, Deb possesses strong financial acumen coupled with a deep commitment to community service. Passionate about economic development, she focuses on creating an environment where local entrepreneurs can thrive. Excited to collaborate with colleagues, Deb is actively addressing housing challenges and supporting rural entrepreneurs, working to ensure that communities not only survive but flourish. Together, they are building a resilient economic base that benefits all residents.

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Autumn Cox has been with NWKP&DC since 2020. She originally began as a part time employee and transitioned to a full-time position in 2022 once she graduated from Fort Hays State University. Autumn works with the Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) Program as well as the HUD Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program. She processes new applications, determines participant eligibility, and assists with housing inspections.

Autumn also assists NWKHI with processing housing applications for rental units, as well as ensuring that Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and HOME compliance rules are being followed, along with ongoing State compliance and reports.

Chris began working part-time at Ellis Co. Housing, Inc. in 2015 and transitioned to a full-time position in 2019. In 2025, she chose to return to part-time work to spend more time with her grandchildren. Chris processes Section 8 and TBRA programs and assists with financial reports. If you have any questions regarding Section 8 or TBRA, please contact Chris.

Tessa Tremblay

Get to know the board of directors for NWKPDC