The site had been certified continuously since 2017.

Economic development officials expressed disappointment but remained optimistic.

"We were just one prospect away," said Economic Development Director Sarah Mohanssen. "Unfortunately, that prospect never arrived."

The 312-acre property had achieved every requirement necessary to attract industrial investment.

The site featured rail access, interstate proximity, utility capacity, shovel-ready acreage, environmental clearance, drone footage, interactive mapping, a downloadable flyer, and a testimonial from a utility representative.

At one point, it even had a professionally-narrated site video with a voiceover similar to Morgan Freeman.

"We really thought that would do it," Mohanssen said.

According to records, the site appeared in 274 marketing presentations, 83 conference conversations, 211 email campaigns, and one very optimistic social media post that described it as "the future home of transformational investment."

That post was first published in 2019, and included three compelling infographics.

Industry experts say the situation is becoming increasingly common.

"Communities spend years certifying sites because prospects say they want certified sites," explained one site selection consultant. "Then prospects spend years asking whether there are any sites more shovel-ready than the certified sites."

The consultant clarified that certification remains important.

"Everyone wants certified sites," he said. "The challenge is finding someone who wants one just like your particular certified site."

Despite the setback, local leaders are already exploring recertification.

A committee has been formed, a consultant has been retained, a steering committee has been established to oversee the committee, a subcommittee has been established to advise the steering committee, and an RFP is expected shortly.

"We're committed to maintaining a world-class inventory of certified sites," Mohanssen said. "Even if no one ever asks to see them."

At press time, the community was pursuing grant funding to recertify the site in anticipation of future prospects who may someday inquire about certified sites, provided those prospects do not require certification newer than the certification currently being pursued.