We recently stumbled across this job posting from the City of Winter Park* for an Economic Development Director. We scratched our heads as if to say "hmmm...how big is Winter Park relative to Kissimmee," but our question was answered in the first sentence, where we see that Winter Park's population is 32,000...about half of Kissimmee's. Which reminds us that St. Cloud, also smaller than Kissimmee, has an economic development consultant as well. What kind of responsibilities would such a position have? Read on:Winter Garden Florida, (Pop. 32,000) the fastest growing city in Orange County is seeking an experienced ED Director to lead the community's economic and business development goals. This includes new business attraction, business retention and expansion, entrepreneurial initiatives and implementation of redevelopment plans. Experience in negotiating sale of City owned property, implementation of business assistance and attraction programs required. Considerable knowledge of business development; considerable knowledge of economic development; working knowledge of municipal zoning and infrastructure; working knowledge of planning programs and processes. Ability to analyze and communicate effectively orally and in writing with industrialists, architects, contractors, developers, owners, supervisors, employees, and the general public; Ability to establish effective working relationships. Bachelor's degree in urban planning, business or public administration, marketing or a related field. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered. Competitive Salary and outstanding benefits package. Apply: e-mail jobs@cwgdn.com, or fax 407.877.2795 or mail HR Department, 251 W. Plant Street, Winter Garden,
FL 34787 EOE
Now that the economic director whom we've been relying on all this time has double duty, isn't it time to re-think how we handle our own economic development? The money spent on the All America City competion, which was done to "help bring in economic development" along with what we currently pay the county for part-time help could be combined and realocated in next year's budget to make for a decent starting salary. Come on Kissimmee... isn't it time?
*Correction - this was actually Winter Garden. Thanks to Osceola Observer for keeping us straight.
3 comments:
The job description clearly states that it is for the city of Winter Garden, not Winter Park.
I think the point that these folks are trying to make is that other areas are actually using what is left of their elected brain cells to try to create a better life for their residents. Here we just have that stay in the cow crap mentality and the only good things that seem to happen are for the people who build housing. Maybe bringing in better jobs would help the developers sell more homes?? Ya, think?
I think the real issue that elected officials of all governments are going to have to deal with is one of a true vision of what Osceola is going to look like 20 years from now. We have heard this for the past couple of years, but the only vision up until now was creating a community where people lived and then worked somewhere else. Recent news stories, and reports from governments themselves have proved that this is a failed plan. County Govenment is proud they were able to push through their Comp. Plan at the state level, but this plan does not benefit any current residents who live in Osceola County. It does not even provide a direction to hit financial stability for the governemtns, or for its residents. It is only a roadmap of how developers can continue to carve chunks out of our community. There is no plan for jobs, and there never was. You can bash the city governments if you want, but the County deserves its 'fair share'. Oh, and lets add in the school board. Their failure rate on improving our educational system is one of the largest reasons companies do not want to move here. I guess 'Stormtoopers' don't have to be smart.
BTW, love your puppet shows. You are on point with your message and that is what people need to hear! Your 'alternative news' is welcomed into the mix, and finally we have some type of daily news.
Happy 4th of July Wayne Who.
God Bless!
Post a Comment