Representatives from local businesses, agriculture, education, the towns and county are a part of a group working to expand Shenandoah County’s economic growth.
Economic Development Director Jenna French said she is thrilled to work with consulting firm RKG Associates on a strategic plan for economic development in Shenandoah County.
One of the key outcomes of the strategic plan is to develop a list of target industries to help diversify the county’s tax base while also looking at ways to uplift our existing businesses including in the tourism and agricultural sectors. ~ Jenna French
While comprehensive plans have a 20-year goal and timeline, a strategic plan is a short-term strategy and should be informed by the community’s vision and land use policies. French stated that it is her job to help carry out the county’s vision as laid out in the comprehensive plan. She is encouraged by the working group’s engagement so far and is confident the process of addressing the broad spectrum of member points of view will lead to the development of a more useful strategy.
The project has an ambitious timeline with a final report to be delivered this summer. Alliance staff Kim Woodwell and board member Seth Coffman serve on the work-group and advocate for investments that capitalize on the natural resources that make our region extraordinary.