Economic Development and Developers in the News # 198
Econ dev news from 90 economic development executives and organizations in 20 states.

Welcome to the 198th weekly edition of Economic Development and Developers in the News.
Today's issue contains news from 90 economic development executives and organizations in 29 states.
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The Econ Dev Show is a podcast and email newsletter delivering actionable strategies, fresh news, insights, and ideas from the economic development community and your host, Dane Carlson.
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California
Petaluma's approved Downtown Housing and Economic Overlay enables higher-density developments to spur revitalization, though preservation advocates have launched a referendum over concerns about historic character. (Brian Oh, Community Development Director)
Sonora launched a public survey for its 2026-2029 Economic Development Strategic Plan, seeking input on revitalization, jobs, housing, and infrastructure priorities. (Tyler Summersett, Community Development Director)
Colorado
Kelly Sage joins the Longmont Economic Development Partnership from Loveland to lead regional growth initiatives.
The Grand Junction Economic Partnership secured Morgan Mining's relocation bringing 900 high-wage jobs—part of a record $91 million economic impact from recent expansions. (Curtis Englehart, Executive Director)
Connecticut
Trumbull's Long Hill Green Improvement Project advances with new walkways, landscaping, and trees funded by grants and local sources. (Rina Bakalar, Director, Economic and Community Development)
Florida
Palm Coast considers capital investment for pad-ready industrial sites to address growth-limiting shortages, while discussing budget increases from one to three percent of general fund. (Craig McKinney, Economic Development Manager)
Hawaii
Construction surge drives Hawaii's economic growth, offsetting tourism stagnation and supporting Maui's wildfire recovery, reports the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, with record construction payroll jobs statewide.
Illinois
Mendota secured $3 million from Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program for pedestrian and bicycle pathways connecting community assets, reports Emily McConville, Economic Developer.
Rochelle extended its agreement with the volunteer-led Greater Rochelle Economic Development Corporation through 2027 for rail and industrial development. (Tricia Herrera, Administrator)
Indiana
Warsaw Common Council approved tax abatement continuations supporting $124 million in private investments across manufacturing, housing, and senior living. (Jeremy Skinner, Community and Economic Development Director)
Iowa
Randy Pilkington retires after 38 years at UNI's Wilson College of Business, where he built Business and Community Services into a 12-program organization generating $30 million economic impact in 2023.
Iowa prioritizes quality of life and amenities to address workforce shortages, states Debi Durham, Iowa Economic Development Director.
Lone Tree advances community branding with a 2025 grant from Greater Iowa City, Inc. for new logo and marketing materials.
Kentucky
Greater Paducah Economic Development announced major projects including an $18 million Marquette Transportation deal and $130 million AES Energy solar initiative creating 150 construction jobs. (Bruce Wilcox, President)
Louisville Metro Ethics Commission dismissed complaint against Mayor Greenberg regarding the Louisville Economic Development Alliance formation.
Louisiana
Christopher Masingill joins Louisiana Central as President and CEO with 20+ years of economic development experience.