Economic Development and Developers in the News # 187

Welcome to the 187th weekly edition of Economic Development and Developers in the News. 

Today's issue contains news from 44 economic development executives and organizations in 22 states.

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Arizona

Dan Henderson, Gilbert's Economic Development Director, has been honored with the Jeffrey A. Finkle Organizational Leadership Award by the International Economic Development Council for his exceptional leadership.

California

The City of San Diego is set to transform the former Serra Mesa Library site into Serra Mesa Apartments, thereby increasing affordable housing in the area. Economic Development Director Christina Bibler emphasized the importance of converting the site to provide necessary housing for those who served in the military.

The Santa Monica City Council has formed an economic development ad hoc subcommittee. This initiative is part of a strategic approach to promote economic growth, enhance revenue-generating opportunities, and ensure long-term financial stability amid ongoing fiscal challenges.

Colorado

Marcie Willard, director of the Economic Development Department for the city of Loveland, will deliver a presentation on economic development's historical and future role in Loveland.

Connecticut

Jay Habansky has been appointed as Norwalk's new chief of economic and community development, replacing Jessica Vonashek.

Florida

Tallahassee has been named one of the top metro areas for economic strength by Area Development magazine for the second consecutive year.

The Tampa Bay Rays have announced they will not move forward with the $1.3 billion stadium and redevelopment deal in St. Petersburg, leaving the future of the team uncertain.

Bethune-Cookman University inaugurated the Center for Entrepreneurship and Economic Development, a new business center aimed at fostering innovation and supporting private and public sector growth across Florida.

Georgia

Kathryn Y. Ogletree has been named the sole finalist for the President and Chief Executive Officer position at the Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority.

The Providence Group of Georgia seeks rezoning in Dunwoody for the redevelopment of a largely vacant office building into 122 townhomes, aligning with the city's Edge City 2.0 study aiming to increase "missing middle" housing. Dunwoody Economic Development Director Michael Starling supports the project as it addresses housing needs and revitalizes older office stock.

Illinois

Oak Park's village board reviewed Camoin Associates, Inc.'s economic vitality plan, featuring 62 recommendations including forming a new economic vitality commission and reviving the Oak Park Economic Development Corporation.

Indiana

Duke Energy Foundation and the Indiana Economic Development Association Foundation have awarded $150,000 in grants to four organizations, including Fulton Economic Development Corporation and Greencastle Putnam County Development Center, to improve access to affordable child care in Indiana.

Kansas

Ben Schears has been appointed Vice President for Economic and Workforce Development at Fort Hays State University, where he will spearhead initiatives to foster economic growth and innovation.

Louisiana

Sarah Overall has been appointed as the new Main Street/Economic Development Director for Minden following approval by the city council.

Massachusetts

The town of Hopkinton is considering the creation of an Economic Development Advisory Board and an Office of Economic Development to boost its commercial and industrial base.

Michigan

The City of Bronson has been awarded the Redevelopment Ready Communities Essentials designation by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, marking a significant step in its long-term economic development strategy. (Michele Wildman, MEDC Chief Place Officer)

Minnesota

Greater Fergus Falls has temporarily halted its activities as the City Council seeks a new direction for economic development.

Nebraska

The Nebraska Department of Economic Development, led by Director K.C. Belitz, has announced the recipients of the Rural Workforce Housing Fund.

The Hastings Economic Development Corporation is prioritizing workforce housing as a crucial component of its growth strategy, as emphasized by Executive Director Shannon Landauer at their annual meeting.

Pawnee City is offering $50,000 in downpayment assistance to attract new residents as part of a Vision 2030 initiative to revitalize the town. Economic Development Director Aaron Sawyer emphasizes the need to build housing to support workforce development, with the campaign also boosting local businesses.

New Jersey

The Morris County Economic Development Corporation recently hosted its 32nd Partners in Economic Development Awards, celebrating contributions to regional economic stability and growth.

The Vineland Convention Center, set to open in Fall 2025, is projected to drive significant economic growth in Vineland by attracting conventions and events that boost local business development, create jobs, and enhance community collaboration. (Vineland Economic Director Sandy Forosisky)

New York

New York City's population has seen two consecutive years of growth, increasing by 87,000 between July 2023 and July 2024, reaching nearly 8.5 million residents. This surge, highlighted by New York City Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Andrew Kimball, reflects the city's robust economic strategies and attractive opportunities for young talent.

Ohio

Senator Kristina Roegner has been honored by NAIOP of Ohio with the Ally of Economic Development designation for her dedication to advancing economic development policy and supporting NAIOP's legislative priorities.

Sandusky County has been recognized with a small business award, a testament to its efforts in job creation and economic development.

Avon Lake's Community Development Department, with support from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, has initiated a public survey to inform its Economic Recovery and Resiliency Plan. (Community Development Director Ted Esborn)

Senator Kristina Roegner has been awarded NAIOP of Ohio’s Ally of Economic Development designation for her contributions to advancing economic development policy.

The Medina City Council has approved the addition of a parcel of land to the Joint Economic Development District with Montville Township. Economic Development Director Kimberly Marshall noted that this project involves a $3 million investment and the creation of about 30 jobs, contributing to the area's economic growth.