HomeMy WebLinkAbout7-24-23RICHARD WARREN, PRESIDENT DANNY EARP, BOARD MEMBER
BRENT McCAULLEY, COUNCILPERSON JOHN BLAKEMORE, BOARD MEMBER
AMANDA GERRISH, BOARD MEMBER NANCY OJEDA, VICE-PRESIDENT
CHUCK ENGELKEN, COUNCILPERSON
CITY OF LA PORTE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION BOARD OF
DIRECTORS MEETING AGENDA
Notice is hereby given of a meeting of the City of La Porte Development Corporation Board of
Directors to be held on July 24, 2023, at the City Hall Council Chamber, 604 West Fairmont
Parkway, La Porte, Texas, beginning at 4:30 pm to consider the following items of business:
Remote participation is available. Attend via a screen using this link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84492765766?pwd=WFlTTWp6ZnZRUzAxekZCNTA0SHJWZz09. Join
by phone at 877-853-5257 or 888-475-4499. The meeting ID is 844 9276 5766 and the passcode is
708164.
1.CALL TO ORDER
2.CITIZEN COMMENT (G enerally limited to five minutes per person; in accordance with state
law, the time may be reduced if there is a high number of speakers or other considerations.)
3.AUTHORIZATIONS
(a)Approve the minutes of the June 26, 2023, meeting of the La Porte Development
Corporation Board of Directors. [Richard W arren, President]
(b)Presentation, discussion, and possible action to approve publishing a notice to begin
the 60-day comment period in order to amend the Fairmont Dog Park Project (Capital
Improvement Project P R0021) and Recreation Center Expansion Phase I Project
(Capital Improvement Project PR008), by transferring an amount not to exceed
$142,931.00 from the Fairmont Dog Park Project fund to the Recreation Center
Expansion Phase I Project fund. [Matt Daeumer, Assistant City Manager]
(c)Presentation, discussion, and possible action to approve the La Porte Development
Corporation’s proposed 2023-24 Fiscal Year budget. [Matt Daeumer, Assistant City
Manager]
(d)Presentation, discussion, and interview with an applicant for the open Economic
Development Manager position. [Matt Daeumer, Assistant City Manager]
4.SET NEXT MEETING
5.BOARD COMMENTS Hear announcements concerning matters appearing on the
agenda; items of community interest; and/or inquiries of staff regarding specific factual
information or existing policy from the Committee members and City staff, for which no
formal action will be discussed or taken.
6.ADJOURN
If, during the course of the meeting and discussion of any items covered by this notice, the La Porte
Development Corporation Board determines that a Closed or Executive Session of the Board is
required, then such closed meeting will be held as authorized by Texas Government Code, Chapter
551, Section 551.071 - consultation with counsel on legal matters; Section 551.072 - deliberation
regarding purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property; Section 551.073 - deliberation
regarding a prospective gift; Section 551.074 - personnel matters regarding the appointment,
employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee;
Section 551.076 - implementation of security personnel or devices; Section 551.087 - deliberation
regarding economic development negotiation; Section 551.089 - deliberation regarding security
devices or security audits, and/or other matters as authorized under the Texas Government Code. If a
Closed or Executive Session is held in accordance with the Texas G overnment Code as set out above,
the La Porte Development Corporation Board will reconvene in Open Session in order to take action, if
necessary, on the items addressed during Executive Session.
Persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who may need auxiliary aids or services are
requested to contact the City Secretary's office (281-470-5019), two working days prior to the meeting for
appropriate arrangements.
Pursuant to Texas Government Code Sec. 551.127, on a regular, non-emergency basis, members may attend and participate
in the meeting remotely by video conference. Should that occur, a quorum of the members will be physically present at the
location noted above on this agenda.
CERTIFICATE
I, Lee W oodward, City Secretary, do hereby certify that a copy of the J uly 24, 2023, La Porte Development
Corporation B oard agenda was posted on the C ity Hall bulletin board, a place convenient and readily accessible to
the general public at all tim es, and to the City's website, www.LaPorteT X.gov, in com pliance with Chapter 551,
Texas Government Code.
DATE OF
POSTING
TIME OF
POSTING
TAKEN DOW N
Lee Woodward
Lee W oodward, City Secretary
Page 1 of 2
June 26, 2023, La Porte Development Corporation Board of Directors Minutes
RICHARD WARREN
PRESIDENT
BRENT MCCAULLEY
COUNCILPERSON
AMANDA GERRISH
BOARD MEMBER
CHUCK ENGELKEN
COUNCILPERSON
DANNY EARP
BOARD MEMBER
JOHN BLAKEMORE
BOARD MEMBER
NANCY OJEDA
VICE-PRESIDENT
MINUTES OF THE LA PORTE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING OF JUNE 26, 2023
The City of La Porte Development Corporation Board met on Monday, June 26, 2023, at the City Hall
Council Chambers, 604 West Fairmont Parkway, La Porte, Texas, at 5:00 p.m., with the following in
attendance:
Board members present: Richard Warren [arrived at 5:19 p.m.], Chuck Engelken, John Blakemore, Brent
McCaulley, Amanda Gerrish
Board members attending remotely: None
Board members absent: Nancy Ojeda, Danny Earp
Council-appointed members present: Corby Alexander, City Manager; Lee Woodward, City Secretary;
Clark Askins, City Attorney
CALL TO ORDER – City Secretary Woodward called the meeting to order at 5:07 p.m. The Board elected
Chuck Engelken to serve as president pro tem for the meeting, due to the absence of
the Board president and vice-president..
2. CITIZEN COMMENT (Generally limited to five minutes per person; in accordance with state law, the
time may be reduced if there is a high number of speakers or other considerations.)
There were no comments.
3. AUTHORIZATIONS
a. Approve the minutes of the April 24, 2023, meeting of the La Porte Development Corporation
Board of Directors. [Richard Warren, President]
Member McCaulley moved to approve the minutes of the April 24, 2023, regular meeting of the La
Porte Development Corporation Board of Directors; the motion was seconded by Member
Blakemore; the motion was adopted, 4-0.
b. Receive Annual Report from Economic Alliance Houston Port Region. [Matt Daeumer,
Assistant City Manager]
Chad Burke arrived at 5:14, the report was received after items 3.c., 4, and 5.
c. Presentation, discussion, and possible action to approve the incentive payment with Frank
Nance, owner of State Farm, located at 508 W Main Street in La Porte, Texas, in an amount
not to exceed $15,000.00. [Matt Daeumer, Assistant City Manager]
Member McCaulley moved to approve the incentive payment with Frank Nance, owner of State
Farm, located at 508 W Main Street in La Porte, Texas, in an amount not to exceed $15,000.00 ;
the motion was seconded by Member Blakemore; the motion was adopted, 4-0.
Page 2 of 2
June 26, 2023, La Porte Development Corporation Board of Directors Minutes
4. SET NEXT MEETING
July 24, 2023, was set as a tentative date for the next meeting of the Board.
5. STAFF REPORTS
a. Update on Economic Development Manager
Assistant City Manager Daeumer said there was an interview set up for Friday and that in-house
training was being considered, as well.
6. BOARD COMMENTS Hear announcements concerning matters appearing on the agenda; items of
community interest; and/or inquiries of staff regarding specific factual information or existing policy from
the Committee members and City staff, for which no formal action will be discussed or taken.
Mr. Warren apologized for arriving late.
ADJOURN – The meeting was adjourned without objection at 5:29 p.m.
___________________________________
Lee Woodward, City Secretary
REQUEST FOR LA PORTE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION BOARD
AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Date Requested: July 24, 2023
Requested By: Matt Daeumer, Asst. City Mgr.
Department: Administration/CMO
Report Resolution Ordinance
Exhibits: None
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
The La Porte Development Corporation (LPDC) funded Capital Improvement Project
(CIP) PR0008 for the Recreation Center Expansion Phase I Project in the amount of
$3,202,152.00. To date, we have spent $757,833.00 on this project for a new roof, new
HVAC and design of Phase I. This leaves available funds of $2,444,319.00 to complete
the project.
Bid #23028 was advertised on June 1 and June 8, 2023. On June 28, 2023, the bid
was opened for the construction of this project. Five bidders responded with the low
bid by FMG Construction Group at $3,214,038.00. With this bid, there is a deficit of
$769,719.00 for the completion of this project.
Staff is recommending that we use $600,000.00 from the Parks Zone fund in the FY24
budget and allocate unused funds from CIP PR011 (Broadway Trail Lighting) in the
amount of $50,000.00, CIP PR0017 (Fairmont Park West Splashpad) in the amount of
$69,848.00 and CIP PR0021 (Fairmont Park Dog Park) in the amount of $142,931.00
for a total of $262,779.00. This will bring the funded total of the project to
$3,307,098.00.
Only PR0021 has a remaining balance funded by the LPDC in the amount of
$142,931.00. Staff requests the LPDC Board to approve to publicly post the transfer
not to exceed $142,931.00 from PR0021 to PR008 in the Bay Area Observer on
Thursday, July 27, 2023, to begin the 60-day comment period for this project.
ACTION REQUIRED BY LPDC BOARD
Presentation, discussion, and possible action to approve publishing a notice to
begin the 60-day comment period in order to amend the Fairmont Dog Park
Project (Capital Improvement Project PR0021) and Recreation Center Expansion
Phase I Project (Capital Improvement Project PR008), by transferring an amount
Appropriation
Source of Funds:
Account Number:
Amount
Budgeted:
Amount
Requested:
Budgeted Item: Yes No
not to exceed $142,931.00 from the Fairmont Dog Park Project fund to the
Recreation Center Expansion Phase I Project fund.
Approved for the La Porte Development Corporation Board meeting agenda
Corby D. Alexander, City Manager Date
REQUEST FOR LA PORTE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION BOARD
AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Date Requested: July 24, 2023
Requested By: Matt Daeumer, Asst. City Mgr.
Department: Administration/CMO
Report Resolution Ordinance
Exhibits: Proposed FY 2023-24 Budget
SUMMARY
The La Porte Development Corporation fiscal year 2023-24 proposed budget has been
reviewed by the City Manager’s Office and Finance. The expenditure budget for next
fiscal year has been prepared with a $1,195,444 (31%) increase from the current fiscal
year budget. This is due to increased transfers to the CIP Fund than the previous years
and a larger allocation for mid-year opportunities that may or may not materialize.
Generally, the EDC Fund transfers funds to the Debt Service Fund annually in the
amount of $750,000 to $1 million. This year’s Debt Service transfer will be $588,000.
In FY 2025-26, this transfer will decrease to approximately $150,500 to service debt
payments.
The LPDC is comprised of 1.25 full-time equivalent employees (0.75 is the Economic
Development Coordinator and 0.50 is the Senior Administrative Assistant). The
Economic Development Coordinator position has been vacant for over a year; however,
the Assistant City Manager has been taking on this position’s daily operations. The City
is in the process of interviewing a candidate for this position, and staff is hopeful to have
this vacancy filled soon. Staff has budgeted for continuation of the membership in vital
key organizations within the Houston area such as Bay Area Houston Economic
Partnership (BAHEP) and Econom ic Alliance as well as the International Center for
Shopping Centers (ICSC) and the Texas City Manager’s Association. Generally, the
Economic Development Coordinator attends the Texas Municipal League (TML) and
TCMA conferences as well as the Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC)
conference. City Council has approved the continuation of the Harris County Transit
services provided to residents in La Porte, which is funded by LPDC. Staff has included
funding for mid-year advertising opportunities as well as funds to attend “trade shows’
such as the Red River & ICSC conferences. As discussed previously with the Board,
staff has included funding for any mid-year incentive opportunities.
The La Porte City Council had a pre-budget retreat earlier this year and asked for staff
to move forward with a list of several quality-of-life amenities. Additionally, during the
Appropriation
Source of Funds: 038 – EDC
Account Number: Various
Amount Budgeted: N/A
Amount Requested:
Budgeted Item: Yes No
budget preparation, staff noted several other quality-of-life amenities that can be
grouped together with these projects. A Total of $3,675,000 quality of life amenity
projects are being requested to be funded by the Board for FY 2023-24:
• Recreation Center Parking Lot Project - $450,000
• Inclusive Playground Project - $400,000
• Main Street Alley Paving Project - $425,000
• Wave Pool Enhancements - $700,000
• Recreation Center Phase II Construction (year 1 of 2) - $1,500,000
• Monarch Park Restroom Project - $200,000
Staff has provided the Board with the FY 2023-24 Proposed Budget documents, which
highlight the LPDC’s healthy proposed fund balance at the end of September 30, 2024,
to be nearly $7.2 million. The City’s Finance Department has been working diligently to
project conservative revenues and feels comfortable in the proposed $3,611,321
revenue projections, which includes sales tax and interest income. Additionally, staff
has provided a line-item detail of expenditures for the Board to review for personnel
services, supplies, and services & charges.
The La Porte City Council is scheduled to receive the annual budget presentation at
the August 14th City Council meeting. Staff is requesting the Board approve the
proposed FY 2023-24 budget for the La Porte Development Corporation.
ACTION REQUIRED BY LPDC BOARD
Presentation, discussion, and possible action to approve the La Porte
Development Corporation’s proposed 2023-24 Fiscal Year budget.
Approved for the La Porte Development Corporation Board meeting agenda.
Corby D. Alexander, City Manager Date
City of La Porte, Texas
Economic Development Corporation
038-6030-565
Detail of Expenditure
Actual Actual Actual Actual Budget Estimated Requested
2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2022-23 Notes - Revised Estimate 2023-24 Notes - Departmental Request
Personal Services:
1010 Regular Earnings 71,734$ 65,453$ 16,439$ 16,157$ 78,396$ 35,000$ YTD $21,575.25 - projection $29,523.68 w/ vacant position 112,000$ Increase request - $108K salary
1020 Overtime 160 - - - - - -
1035 Longevity 166 322 180 28 36 36 74
1060 FICA 5,391 5,015 1,078 968 6,001 2,680 Formula 8,574
1065 Retirement 11,605 10,713 2,250 1,905 12,769 5,704 Formula 20,039
1067 PARS Retirement - 174 44 83 - - -
1080 Insurance - Medical 12,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000
Personal Services Subtotal 101,056 96,677 34,991 34,141 112,202 58,420 155,686
Supplies:
2001 Office Supplies - 9 - - 200 - Have not had Economic Development Manager this FY 200
2002 Postage 1 - 34 40 100 - Have not had Economic Development Manager this FY 100
2015 Other Supplies 705 457 - 311 - - -
2093 Computer & Equipment - - - - - - 2,299 Manager cell phone $1,100, Manager iPad $1,199
Supplies Subtotal 706 466 34 351 300 - 2,599
Services & Charges:
3001 Memberships & Subscriptions 20,759 63,261 20,000 62,500 41,055 40,525 41,055 BAHEP $20,000; Economic Alliance $20,000; TEDC Membership (E. D.
Manager) $525; Associate TCMA Dues (E.D. Manager) $130; ICSC Dues
(Manager and 3 Board Members) $400
3020 Training/Seminars 5,131 3,851 - 277 7,200 4,500 7,200 TEDC Conference $1,500; TML ED Conference $1,000; Webinars $200;
Mileage $1,500; Community Development Institute $3,000
4060 Technology Lease Fees - 602 625 647 500 500 916
5001 Accounting 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 Annual Audit
5003 Legal 31 - - - - - -
5007 Other Professional Services 75,000 79,500 79,500 - 88,153 72,000 CivicPlusRec is paid out of Parks Admin, not EDC; it was double 72,000 Harris County Transit Authority Bus Agreement
6002 Printing & Reproduction - - - - 500 - Have not had Economic Development Manager this FY 500 Business cards and pamphlets
6005 Advertising 5,460 4,345 9,638 - 10,000 - Have not had Economic Development Manager this FY 10,000
6040 Trade Shows 343 95 - - 10,000 - Have not had Economic Development Manager this FY 10,000
9997 Special Programs 124,846 - 45,200 72,000 387,347 25,000 Only one incentive agreement to be paid out
Increased by $10K - CMR
500,000 Mid-Year Opportunities $250,000; Public Art $50,000.
Merit - $3,000 - Removed - CMR
$200,000 added for Mid-Year Opportunities - ACM 07/17
9004 Adm Transfer to Fund 004 1,033,362 1,004,822 - 778,752 785,255 785,255 588,000
9015 Adm Transfer to Fund 015 1,835,700 1,292,950 967,000 1,791,031 2,425,000 2,425,000 3,675,000 Fitness Center Parking Lot $950,000 (Reduced to $450K 06/30 - ACM);
Inclusive Playground $400,000; Northside Wall $550,000 (Removed 6/30 -
ACM); Main Street Alleys $425,000; Wave Pool Enhancements $500,000;
Monarch Park Restroom $200,000
Rec Center Phase I -$200,000 Added 06/30 - ACM
Rec Center Phase II - $1,500,000 Added 06/30 - ACM
Removed Rec Center Phase I - $200,000 - CIP Meeting 07/07
Increased Wave Pool Enhancements by $200,000 - CIP Meeting 07/07
Services & Charges Subtotal 3,105,632 2,454,426 1,126,963 2,710,207 3,760,010 3,357,780 4,909,671
Division Total 3,207,394$ 2,551,569$ 1,161,988$ 2,744,699$ 3,872,512$ 3,416,200$ 5,067,956$
Beginning Fund Balance 9/30/22 8,314,938$
Plus Estimated 22-23 Revenues 3,742,070
Less Estimated 22-23 Expenditures and Commitments
Economic Development Operations 205,945
Debt Payments 785,255
Capital Projects/Transfers 2,425,000
Total Expenditures 3,416,200
Estimated Fund Balance 9/30/23 8,640,808
Plus 23-24 Revenues:
1/2 Cent Sales Tax 3,375,000
Interest Income 236,321
Total Revenues 3,611,321
Equals Total Resources 12,252,129
Less 23-24 Expenditures:
Economic Development Operations 804,956
Debt Service Transfer 588,000
Transfer to General CIP Fund:
Fitness Center Parking Lot 450,000
Inclusive Playground 400,000
Rec Center Phase II 1,500,000
Main Street Alleys 425,000
Wave Pool Enhancements 700,000
Monarch Park Restroom 200,000
Total Expenditures 5,067,956
Ending Fund Balance 9/30/24 7,184,173$
Estimated Projected
2022-23 2023-24
Revenues 3,742,070$ 3,611,321$
Expenditures & Commitments 3,416,200 5,067,956
Revenues over Expenditures 325,869$ (1,456,635)$
(Section 4B Sales Tax)
City of La Porte
La Porte Development Corporation (038) Fund Summary
City of La Porte
La Porte Development Corporation Fund (038)
Statement of Revenues
Actual Budget Revised Projected
Object Description 2021-22 2022-23 2022-23 2023-24
Charges for Services:
403.02-00 1/2 Cent Sales Tax 3,791,256$ 3,250,000$ 3,500,000$ 3,375,000$
Charges for Services Subtotal 3,791,256 3,250,000 3,500,000 3,375,000
Interest:
483.01-00 Interest Income 5,124 4,000 242,070 236,321
Interest Subtotal 5,124 4,000 242,070 236,321
Total La Porte Development Corp Fund Revenues 3,796,379$ 3,254,000$ 3,742,070$ 3,611,321$
Economic Development Corporation
Fiscal Year 2023-24
Economic Development Operations
Expenditure Summary
Actual Actual Budget Estimated Requested Percent
2021-22 2021-22 2022-23 2022-23 2023-24 Change
Personal Services 34,991$ 34,141$ 112,202$ 58,420$ 155,686$ 38.76%
Supplies 34 351 300 - 2,599 766.33%
Services & Charges 1,126,963 2,710,207 3,760,010 3,357,780 4,909,671 30.58%
Division Total 1,161,988$ 2,744,699$ 3,872,512$ 3,416,200$ 5,067,956$ 30.87%
Scope of Services Summary
Personnel Position Roster
Approved Approved Approved
2021-22 2022-23 2022-23
Economic Development Manager 0.75 0.75 0.75
Department Coordinator 0.50 0.50 0.50
Total 1.25 1.25 1.25
The Economic Development Division works with the Economic Development Corporation Board to establish direction and polices related to
economic development projects in the City. The Department and its activities are funded through the collection of a 1/2 cent sales tax, which
must be spent on economic development projects related to capital investment, quality of life,recreation, and/or primary job creation. Past
activities have included the re-nourishment of Sylvan Beach, the ball fields at Pecan Park, the Community Library, construction of Canada
Road, Construction of Bay Area Blvd., the Sports Complex, and infrastructure improvements on Main Street.
We will continue to work with our regional economic development partners on business retention and expansion programs, small business
development, marketing efforts, workforce initiatives, transportation issues and quality of life issues. The Economic Development Coordinator
will also serve as the Business Ombudsman for the City of La Porte, assisting new and existing businesses through the planning and zoning
processes.
City of La Porte, Texas
Economic Development Corporation 038-6030-565
Detail of Expenditures
Actual Actual Budget Estimated Requested
2021-22 2021-22 2022-23 2022-23 2023-24
Personal Services:
1010 Regular Earnings 16,439$ 16,157$ 78,396$ 35,000$ 112,000$
1035 Longevity 180 28 36 36 74
1060 FICA 1,078 968 6,001 2,680 8,574
1065 Retirement 2,250 1,905 12,769 5,704 20,039
1067 PARS Retirement 44 83 - - -
1080 Insurance - Medical 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000
Personal Services Subtotal 34,991 34,141 112,202 58,420 155,686
Supplies:
2001 Office Supplies - - 200 - 200
2002 Postage 34 40 100 - 100
2015 Other Supplies - 311 - - -
2093 Computer & Equipment - - - - 2,299
Supplies Subtotal 34 351 300 - 2,599
Services & Charges:
3001 Memberships & Subscriptions 20,000 62,500 41,055 40,525 41,055
3020 Training/Seminars - 277 7,200 4,500 7,200
4060 Technology Lease Fees 625 647 500 500 916
5001 Accounting 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000
5007 Other Professional Services 79,500 - 88,153 72,000 72,000
6002 Printing & Reproduction - - 500 - 500
6005 Advertising 9,638 - 10,000 - 10,000
6040 Trade Shows - - 10,000 - 10,000
9997 Special Programs 45,200 72,000 387,347 25,000 500,000
9004 Adm Transfer to Fund 004 - 778,752 785,255 785,255 588,000
9015 Adm Transfer to Fund 015 967,000 1,791,031 2,425,000 2,425,000 3,675,000
Services & Charges Subtotal 1,126,963 2,710,207 3,760,010 3,357,780 4,909,671
Division Total 1,161,988$ 2,744,699$ 3,872,512$ 3,416,200$ 5,067,956$
REQUEST FOR LA PORTE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION BOARD
AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Date Requested: July 24, 2023
Requested By: Matt Daeumer, Asst. City Mgr
Department: Administration/CMO
Report Resolution Ordinance
Exhibits: Resume
SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION
The LPDC is comprised of 1.25 full-time equivalent employees (0.75 is the Economic
Development Manager and 0.50 is the Senior Administrative Assistant). The Economic
Development Manager position has been vacant for several years; however, the
Assistant City Manager has been taking on this position’s daily operations. The City
Manager’s Office, along with the Human Resources Section, has reviewed applications
for this position and interviewed an experienced applicant.
Staff will facilitate introducing the Board to the applicants along with an interview.
ACTION REQUIRED BY LPDC BOARD
Presentation, discussion, and interview with an applicant for the open Economic
Development Manager position.
Approved for the La Porte Development Corporation Board meeting agenda
Corby D. Alexander, City Manager Date
Appropriation
Source of Funds:
Account Number:
Amount
Budgeted:
Amount
Requested:
Budgeted Item: Yes No
Page 1 of 6
David A. Stedman
Economic Development & Governmental Relations That Delivers ROI
DRIVEN To build consensus and empower prosperity through the
application of focused political will.
To research, apply, lobby and secure grant funding &
economic incentives to fund public policy initiatives .
To employ branding, public relations, marketing and
community mobilization to generate action.
To leverage national and international contacts to create a
climate for economic expansion.
To support economic development, new business
recruitment, retention, expansion and infrastructure
improvement, for a superior return to all stakeholders.
PROFILE A gifted economic development marketing & governmental
relations executive with senior level marketing/ branding
experience and c-level sales ability. A persuasive
communicator, able to motivate target audiences through
public relations, interactive media, business-to-business
advertising and sales process management. A team player,
inspiring others to set and achieve the highest standards for
success.
ASSETS National, state and regional contacts, plus the ability to
mold public opinion and political leverage on both sides of
the aisle.
Proven fund raising, grant, tax increment and bond
financing resulting in millions in funded projects.
Branding & lead generation via online and offline
advertising, event marketing, public relations, research,
planning, and sales.
New business development, speech/ grant /proposal
writing, sales presentation and public speaking skills.
International experience in China, Hong Kong, Singapore,
Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, U.K., France, Spain, Germany,
The Netherlands, Mexico, Venezuela, Brazil, Columbia,
Aruba and Puerto Rico.
Page 2 of 6
Experience
05/22 – Present Giddings Economic Development
Corporation
Angleton, TX, USA
President/ CEO
Hired to jumpstart positive change for the Giddings Economic
Development Corporation (GEDC), strategically located in Central Texas
at the intersection of Hwy 290 and U.S. 77, with the possibility of being
triple served by rail. In less than a year, accomplishments include…
Secured a $2.3 million Dept of Commerce/ EDA grant and up to $1
million Community Development Block Grant within the first month on the
job.
With no projects in the Texas Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) or
the Texas Unified Transportation Plan (TUPT), I got three major projects
underway in the 1Q 2023 out of Discretionary Funding, including grade
separations to relieve the traffic backlog on Hwy 290 at the Union Pacific
Crossing.
Conceived the ‘Giddings Workforce Summit’ featuring Texas Workforce
Commissioner Aaron Demerson, Sen. Kolkhorst, Paul Fletcher of
Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Areas (WSRCA), Chancellor Mary
Hensley of Blinn College and local leaders, drawing coverage on Austin
TV, two radio stations, and Austin/ Houston business press.
Orchestrated a grassroots campaign and public policy initiative to fund
Giddings (and Texas) transportation and rail related projects in the Texas
Legislature with a $75 million appropriation in this year’s budget.
Have a Letter of Intent to double our money on a 167-acre tract to one of
the largest lot developers in the U.S.A. (60% owned by America’s largest
builder). The 440+ lot residential development and the Commercial
Reserve will transform the city and solve the workforce housing problem.
We have responded to approximately 128 Requests for Proposals (RFP) as
a result of the Office of The Governor for Economic Development and
independently developed leads from Business Recruitment efforts. We
made the initial cut on 12 submittals and have had site visits from five
prospect companies including a major international battery manufacturing
company looking for a North American HQ and manufacturing plant.
Business Recruitment Efforts have landed American Chicken, LLC ($10
million capital Investment and 150 jobs); Top J Metal (50 jobs), The Big
Easy (live entertainment venue) and a Beall’s Outlet Store.
Successful Business Retention and Expansion efforts include 6th Street
Spirits, The Giddings Brewhaus, Altman Plants, H&R Machine and
Kaemark Industries.
Downtown Restoration projects include E.V. Charging Stations, Digital
Signage and increased downtown parking to jumpstart local business.
Conceived and helped promote numerous concerts, car shows, street
festivals and events designed to promote Giddings as a destination and
attract Austin companies and workers to live, work and play.
Page 3 of 6
8/08 – 12/21 Evermore Community
Improvement District (CID) Stone Mountain,
GA, USA
Director of Economic Development
Charged with economic development for the U.S. 78 commerce
corridor which runs 7.5 miles from Stone Mountain to Snellville,
Georgia. Initial focus was on business recruitment, retention and
urban redevelopment. Subsequently secured two of the five
Gwinnett County Tax Allocation Districts (TAD). Personally,
reversed the opposition of Pct. 3 County Commissioner and the
Stone Mountain Memorial Association (SMMA) and gained board
support for a plan to transform the Olympic Tennis Stadium into
a multi-purpose arena tied to a multi-modal transportation hub
that will serve as a model for Transit Oriented Development and
provide a catalyst for community revitalization and
redevelopment. Secured a $40,000 LCI Supplemental grant
from the Atlanta regional commission (ARC) to study the
concept. Generated over $93,000 worth of earned media
coverage of a “Grand Re-opening of Hwy 78 that showcased
Evermore’s $60 million “Extreme Makeover”. As a result,
Evermore is poised to double assessed values at the gateway
from $70.5 to $149 million over the next decade.
3/04 – 8/08 Economic Development
Alliance for Brazoria
County
Angleton, TX,
USA
President/ CEO
Revitalized economic development for this county running from
Southwest Houston to Port Freeport. Successfully branded the
organization as “The Alliance” and as “Houston’s best value
partner”. Directed a multi-media campaign that passed a $50
million bond election by a 67.7% margin. Created an Index of
Economic Indicators to track performance. Secured a $325,000
grant for the Gulf Coast Regional Spaceport (GCRSDC), a
$750,000 grant from the Texas Enterprise Fund and a $950,000
grant from the Texas Emerging Technologies Fund. Served as
Vice Chair of the GCRSDC, a member of Texas One, TeamTexas,
The Texas Economic Development Council, Opportunity
Houston, the Houston Image Group and the Branding Task
Force of the Greater Houston Partnership.
Page 4 of 6
2/88 – 3/04 Hood Marketing Solutions Atlanta, GA, USA
Executive Vice President
Direct all account service and new business development for this
highly creative agency providing branding, interactive
marketing, advertising and public relations services. Employed
strategic research that profiled our client's customers,
discovered their needs and motivations, and created
communications to generate a superior return on marketing
investment. Created a new business system for identifying and
penetrating major new accounts. Accounts include Alltel
Information Services, Optio Software, NDC, Global Payments,
the Buffalos Cafe restaurant chain, Lockheed and Federal &
Associated Credit Unions, Westin Hotels, CDCI Software,
CryoLife, IKON Office Systems, and Wilmar Manufacturing.
Created The Excelerater, an emerging technology incubator,
as a wholly owned subsidiary of the Agency. Clients included
Prorizon Corporation, Eunity Healthnet, FutureWeb TV,
YUSave.com, and Advanced Bar Code Technology. Evaluated
and positioned these businesses and marketed them to clients,
as well as to the venture capital community.
3/87 - 2/88 Ogilvy and Mather Houston, TX, USA
Account Supervisor
Worked on Six Flags and The Woodlands, a 25,000-acre master
planned, mixed-use development positioned as a “new
hometown" north of Houston. Also heavily involved in new
business activities for the agency.
9/83 - 3/87 Leader Federal Memphis, TN, USA
Vice President
Directed all marketing activities and managed advertising
agency relations for this $1.6 billion thrift. Multi-media
campaigns generated the most movement of asset-based
product in the history of the company with a 17.8% return on
beginning equity. Guided the institution into new product lines
and services including the acquisition of the area's largest
homebuilder, creating a captive insurance carrier, credit cards,
aircraft financing and investment products.
8/80 - 9/83 Gemcraft Homes Houston, TX, USA
Vice President
Controlled a $6 million budget, directing all advertising and
marketing activities for this dynamic regional homebuilder. Our
"setting the new standard" re-branding campaign was the most
successful in the history of the International Demographics
Housing Audit, propelling an 8% rise in market share. Gemcraft
closed 1,600 homes that year, rising from 12th to 3rd in the
Texas market. Supported launch of a successful IPO.
Page 5 of 6
3/75 - 8/80 Daigle, Koye, Jodinskas
& Whitaker
Houston, TX, USA
Executive Vice President
Began as an account executive on travel, fast food and
hospitality accounts, and rose to head all account service,
directing all new business activity for this $16 million, full-
service advertising agency. Increased shelf space 26%, sales
volume by 74% and doubled market share as a result of a new
package design and multimedia campaign for Success Rice.
Other clients included Host International Hotels, Coca-Cola
Foods, Riviana Brands, and Homart Development.
9/73 - 3/75 Dobbs Houses, Inc. Memphis, TN, USA
Coordinator Of New Concept Development
Responsible for researching, planning, and coordinating the
opening of "new concept" theme dinner house restaurants, with
full service and bar, generating sales of $1.6 to 2 million.
Supervised five units in two states.
EDUCATION 5/04 Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta, GA, USA
Economic Development
6/00 Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta, GA, USA
Certified e-Business Strategist
5/73 The University of Texas Austin, TX, USA
Bachelor's Degree with Special Honors.
Page 6 of 6
AFFILIATIONS Former Member of The Greater Houston Partnership
(GHP)
GHP Branding Task Force (Founding Member)
Former Board Member of Texas One
Houston International Business Expo
Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC)
Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Areas (Current
Board Member)
Former Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, Chairman’s
Club
Former Partnership Gwinnett, Investor
Former Technology Association of Georgia
The Council of Quality Growth
The Urban Land Institute
International Council of Shopping Centers
Georgia Economic Development Association
CoreNet International
American Association of Advertising Agencies
Public Relations Society of America
American Marketing Association