Looking to 2019 and beyond

We spent quite a bit of time this year refining our scope of work, examining the areas where we can make the most impact, and considered the larger needs of our community first and foremost. In the past we have been accused, rightfully so, of trying to be too many things to too many people. […]

Opportunity Zones Frequently Asked Questions……and where our zone is?

Q. What is an Opportunity Zone? A. An Opportunity Zone is an economically-distressed community where new investments, under certain conditions, may be eligible for preferential tax treatment. Localities qualify as Opportunity Zones if they have been nominated for that designation by the state and that nomination has been certified by the Secretary of the U.S. […]

We opened a shop in Belpre………here’s why

When I first arrived back in the valley after a few years away, I was quickly whisked into a committee of concerned and eager citizens from the Belpre Chamber. The Economic Development Committee as they were so called, were the front lines of promoting and attracting business in the community. It wasn’t long after that […]

Critical Path to Site Development Pt. 4: Ease of Acquisition and Incentives

Much is made in the econ dev world of the importance of incentives. In higher, more competitive circles, the discussion usually centers around what incentive, rebate, program the end user got to finalize the deal. The fallout from the Amazon HQ2 process proved as much when immediately following the announcement, the articles about what the […]