Economic Development and Developers in the News # 208
Econ dev news from 54 economic development executives and organizations in 24 states.
Welcome to the 208th weekly edition of Economic Development and Developers in the News!
Today's issue contains news from 54 economic development executives and organizations in 24 states.
If this is your first time reading: Hello!
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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To submit your organization's news, please use this form. If you see an error, send me an email and I'll correct it.
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Alabama
Jacob Morgan was appointed president and CEO of the Covington County Economic Development Commission, succeeding the late Rick Clifton.
The Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, led by Miller Girvin, is advancing growth through the Alabama Business Intelligence Center’s tech recruitment, the SEEDS industrial site program, and policy wins like the Powering Growth Act and Alabama Development Fund.
Arizona
Jazmin Zamudio and Armando Esparza outlined efforts to support local businesses, recruit small business owners, and attract national chains in Somerton and San Luis.
Arkansas
The Fayetteville City Council denied Core Spaces’ 312-unit student housing project, which included 37 affordable units and relocation assistance. Devin Howland called it “unprecedented” for the region.
Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Charles E. Brown Jr. was named director of military affairs for the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, leading support for the state’s five military installations.
Nearly 200 leaders from 10 states graduated from the 39th annual Community Development Institute at UCA. Jon Chadwell earned the Bill Miller Award for contributions to rural economic development.
Colorado
Audrey Royem was appointed economic development coordinator for the Region 9 Economic Development District of Southwest Colorado, bringing Peace Corps and UN experience.
Steve Art, Wheat Ridge’s economic development manager since 2011, will retire next year after leading urban renewal and business growth.
Delaware
Andrew D. Harton was named Sussex County’s Economic Development Director, overseeing programs like ExciteSussex and the Sussex County Kitchen Incubator.
Florida
John Boland, Director of the Lee County Economic Development Office, shifted focus to existing businesses, making 250+ visits in 2016 and launching programs tied to 900 new jobs.
Georgia
Jennifer Mihalcoe was appointed Forsyth County Economic Development Program Manager, bringing 13 years of experience.
Wiregrass Georgia Technical College trained 13,000+ employees at 105 companies in FY 2025, reflecting South Georgia’s growing workforce needs. (EVP Michael Williams)
Jennifer Mihalcoe was also announced as Forsyth County's new program manager for business attraction and retention.
