CENTREVILLE – St. Joseph County Economic Development Corporation Executive Director, David Allen, announced December 28 he has accepted an offer for the position of Vice President, Business Development Officer, for First National Bank of Three Rivers. His new position becomes effective January 30, 2006. Until that time, he will assist in transitioning his duties at the EDC.

“Though I am excited about this new opportunity that has been offered me, I am also somewhat saddened to have to serve my resignation notice to the EDC,” Allen said. “I am very proud of what the EDC has accomplished during my tenure and am excited about its future.”

Allen said the best years for the EDC lie ahead and encourages the County to continue supporting the organization both financially and philosophically.

“St. Joseph County’s support has been instrumental in the EDC’s becoming the respected force it is within the county and region,” he said. “Personally, I plan to stay connected to the EDC as it moves forward with its mission and vision.”

A few key successes during Allen’s reign at the EDC include, the creation of a countywide Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and receipt of a $400,000 assessment grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to support a $28.5 million expansion at American Axle & Manufacturing bringing in 60 new jobs; a CDBG to support a $10.35 million expansion at Lear Corporation resulting in 50 new jobs; a $6.7 million retention and expansion project at Weyerhaeuser Corporation and the recruitment of Fiber By-Products Corporation with 21 new jobs.

Allen has also been instrumental in lobbying for warehousing tax abatement incentives at the state level and the current efforts to change US-131 to a limited access highway.

“We will miss Dave at the EDC, but are happy he is remaining a vital player locally,” said Dave Mumby, incoming EDC Board President. “We commend him for all of his fine efforts over the past three years. The organization has grown exponentially under his leadership. We are also grateful Dave will be an integral part in our plans to transition and fill his position.”

The St. Joseph County Economic Development Corporation was formed in 1997. In their eight years of operation, they have provided material assistance to companies resulting in the creation and retention of 923 direct and 2,021 indirect jobs, $141,830,000 in private investment, and $26,671,400 in grants and incentives from the State of Michigan and federal agencies. For more information, visit www.sjcedc.com.

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