Economic Development and Developers in the News # 221
Econ dev news from 105 economic development executives and organizations in 26 states.
Welcome to the 221st weekly edition of Economic Development and Developers in the News!
This week: updates from 105 executives and organizations across 26 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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Arizona
The Greater Phoenix Economic Council, under new president and chief executive officer Christine Mackay, is driving the region’s rapid growth, with metro Phoenix ranking sixth nationally for population gains between 2023 and 2024 and ranking tenth in the nation for Inc. 5000 firms, reflecting strong collaboration and innovation across its 22 cities. (Christine Mackay, President and CEO, Greater Phoenix Economic Council)
Arkansas
The Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with key stakeholders and Boyette Strategic Advisors, has unveiled the Bold Bentonville economic development strategic plan, prioritizing infrastructure, retail, and asset enhancement to manage rapid growth and address affordability and quality of life. (Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Brandom Gengelbach)
California
The 5th Redwood Coast Region Economic Development Summit brought together representatives from Del Norte, Humboldt, Lake, Mendocino, and Trinity counties to focus on rural economic transformation, regional collaboration, and strategies such as agri-tourism and disaster mitigation, led by organizers Susan Seaman (North Edge Program Director) and Nicole Flora (Executive Director, Lake County Economic Development Corporation).
The Sonora City Council will hear updates from the Central Sierra Economic Development District on the Sierra Jobs First initiative and review advisor Cole Przybyla’s report on economic development strategies, reflecting ongoing regional efforts to spur job growth and foster economic resilience.
Derek Farmer has been appointed as assistant director of Community and Economic Development for the city of Pleasanton, a newly created role aimed at streamlining planning processes and advancing strategic economic development initiatives. Farmer, a 27-year veteran in land-use planning, will oversee policy development and support efforts to enhance local economic vitality.
Jazz Keyes has been appointed president and chief executive of Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation, a long-standing nonprofit community development financial institution focused on economic empowerment in underserved areas, following a transition prompted by investigations into former leadership’s financial mismanagement. Keyes aims to stabilize the organization, rebuild community trust, and advance initiatives supporting street vendors, youth digital literacy, and local economic inclusion.
Connecticut
Virginia (Ginny) Kozlowski will retire as Chief Executive Officer of the Economic Development Corporation of New Haven, REX Development, and Visit New Haven, after a tenure marked by advancing economic growth, tourism, and regional collaboration—including achieving Connecticut's first federally recognized Economic Development District. (Chief Executive Officer Ginny Kozlowski)
Michael Harris has been named Chief Executive Officer of both the Economic Development Corporation of New Haven and REX Development, bringing extensive experience in regional strategy and public-private partnerships. Harris will oversee city and regional economic initiatives, including the South Central Connecticut Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy and tourism efforts through Visit New Haven. (Chief Executive Officer Michael Harris)
Florida
The Bay County Economic Development Alliance is advancing several significant projects projected to create up to 2,000 new jobs across sectors such as manufacturing, aviation, and aerospace, with long-term regional impact. The Alliance, led by President Becca Hardin, is partnering with education and workforce organizations to prepare the community for these opportunities.
Illinois
Peoria-based JPG Commercial will receive about $2 million in sales tax rebates from the city of Pekin to support retail development on a prominent commercial site, with the agreement expected to generate new jobs and economic activity. (Economic Development Director Josh Wray)
Indiana
John Launius, senior vice president and chief economic development officer for One Southern Indiana, has been named one of North America's top 50 economic developers for 2025 by Consultant Connect, recognizing his leadership, innovative strategies, and measurable impact in fostering thriving communities. (Senior Vice President and Chief Economic Development Officer John Launius)
Collin Bice has been appointed president and chief executive officer of the DeKalb County Economic Development Partnership, Inc., where he will lead strategic business retention and expansion efforts and strengthen partnerships to drive economic growth and investment throughout the region. (President and Chief Executive Officer Collin Bice)
Louisiana
Louisiana Economic Development has launched a full-page Wall Street Journal advertisement inviting New Yorkers to relocate to Louisiana, highlighting new investments in artificial intelligence and steel, increased educational performance, and statewide affordability. (LED Secretary Susan Bonnett Bourgeois)
The South Webster Industrial District’s Sibley Business Site has earned the Louisiana Economic Development Certified Business Site designation, signaling it is ready for immediate investment and development. Leaders from the North Louisiana Economic Partnership (President and Chief Executive Officer Justyn Dixon) and Louisiana Economic Development (Chief Economic Competitiveness Officer Ileana Ledet) highlight the site’s certification as a catalyst for new jobs and competitiveness in the region.
