Village of Glen Ellyn Seeks to Fill New Economic Development Manager Position

With the recent approval of the tax increment financing district, the Village of Glen Ellyn will focus on economic development in 2012 and announced the creation of a new staff position which will focus on spurring economic development.

Currently, the Glen Ellyn Economic Development Corporation serves as the Village's economic tool to help recruit and retain businesses in Glen Ellyn. According to a statement from Village Manager Mark Franz, the Village will bring these efforts in-house by creating a spot for an Economic Development Manager, who will report directly to Franz.

The Village has a multi-tiered system to spur economic development and Franz said, "it became clear that focus was important. We need to eliminate duplication of effort, increase alignment and accountability, and decrease the costs of our economic development efforts."   

The financial savings by bringing this position in-house are unclear at this time. According to the statement, the change becomes effective May 1. 

"The EDC served a meaningful purpose for the past two decades,” said Franz. “It was successful. Our economic development needs have changed and the structure that supports the Village’s efforts must adapt to those needs. The Village sincerely thanks Janie Patch, Executive Director, and all the volunteers from the Chamber and the Village who have served on the Economic Development Corporation for so many years," Franz said.