Economic Development and Developers in the News # 183

Welcome to the 183rd weekly edition of Economic Development and Developers in the News.

Today's issue contains news from 44 economic development executives and organizations in 16 states and Canada.

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The Econ Dev Show is a podcast and email newsletter actionable strategies, fresh news, insights, and ideas from the economic development community and your host, Dane Carlson.

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Alabama

Governor Kay Ivey has announced $23.5 million in SEEDS grants to boost Alabama's economic growth by developing industry-ready sites.

A proposed bill could double Dale County's lodging tax from 2% to 4%, significantly enhancing funding for the Ozark-Dale County Economic Development Corporation.

The collaborative efforts of Decatur's economic development leaders, including Decatur's Director of Development Dane Shaw and Morgan County EDA President Jeremy Nails, exemplify a relationship-driven approach to growth. By partnering with local and regional organizations, they aim to enhance the city's infrastructure and attract new businesses, such as two recent Starbucks and retail expansions. The city's One Decatur comprehensive plan guides these initiatives, emphasizing a cooperative strategy among government, business, and community entities to revitalize Decatur's economy.

California

Tess Radmill Sangster is the new Economic Development & Public Affairs Director at City of San Marcos, CA.

Sierra College Superintendent and President Willy Duncan has been awarded the 2024 Community Partner Award by the International Economic Development Council for his pivotal role in attracting BOSCH to Placer County and his leadership with the Greater Sacramento Economic Council. Duncan's efforts are expected to inject $1.9 billion and 950 jobs into the regional economy.

Canada

Ron Gaudet is the new President of the Board of Directors at Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC).

Daniel Van Kampen is the new Board Member at Ontario East Economic Development Commission.

Colorado

Paula Mehle, AICP, MPA is the new Economic Development Director at Town of Lochbuie, Colorado.

Kris Oyler, Chief Executive Officer of Peak Brewing Co., has been honored with the "Ed Morlan Economic Development Leader of the Year" award by the Region 9 Economic Development District board of directors.

Connecticut

Jacqueline M. James has been appointed as Hamden's Economic and Community Development Director, succeeding Ayanna Wayner.

Florida

Denise Sanderson, CPM is the new Interim Community Development Director at City of St. Pete Beach.

The Alachua County Commission has launched the Forward Focus initiative, a three-year plan aimed at enhancing economic opportunities and essential services for eastern Alachua County residents. With an initial funding of $150,000, the plan addresses healthcare, transportation, and economic development through community engagement and a comprehensive needs assessment. Sean McLendon, Economic Development Manager, emphasizes balancing conservation with growth to maintain community character.

Florida Avenue Main Street, a newly established nonprofit organization, aims to drive business growth and economic development in Jacksonville's Eastside neighborhood by revitalizing vacant spaces. (Executive Director Nigelle Kohn)

Illinois

The Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park is at the forefront of economic development, as millions of dollars in public and private investment aim to transform the region into a hub for global innovation. Led by Preeti Chalsani (chief quantum officer, Intersect Illinois) and Aaron Fluitt (senior director, PsiQuantum), the 128-acre campus seeks to advance quantum computing technology and attract expertise, despite competition from other states and international entities.

The Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council highlights a housing shortage and rising living costs as major hindrances to economic growth in the Twin Cities, despite adding 9,500 jobs over the past decade. Business Attraction Director Casey Peterson and EDC CEO Patrick Hoban emphasize the need for creative solutions and incentives to address these challenges and attract young professionals to the area.