Manchester Economic Development

This past August Manchester witnessed something that has never happen in our area, a complete political revolt against the "same ole, same ole". Over the first few months of the new administration several changes have taken place both in the form of personnel and policy reforms. But the most noticeable change may be the approach to Manchester's economic development strategies.

"Mayor Norman and I spoke early an often on changes that we felt we not only necessary in our development strategies, but were absolutely critical" said Vice Mayor Ryan French.

Early this month newly elected Alderman Cheryl Swan accompanied by Vice Mayor French traveled to Atlanta with the Chamber of Commerce to visit with retail developers from across the country. The team made up of veteran chamber members and staff included John Roberts of Roberts Automotive Group, Amber Dotson of Fantasy Radio, and Director of the Chamber Susie Mcerin.

"The mission was simple", said French. "These folks are the professionals, and for the city to build an affective economic development strategy it only makes sense to learn from the best".

French said he felt good about the trip "I think we had a great trip, there is a lot of buzz about our city and it was great to materialize the needs of this group that will only enhance this experience further. These guys told me this was the best trip they have had in sometime, and they are the pros... That only excites me that much more."

The Vice Mayor followed his trip to Atlanta with a two day stop in Nashville at the Governors Economic Development Conference.

"The Governor's ECD Conference was a fantastic experience", said French. "I was able to speak one on one with the Governor about our community needs, our focus, and our strategies moving forward and took away invaluable advice from the Governor and other industry professionals that will help shape our approach to economic development."

Last week French announce two major potential partnerships that came away from the two day conference in Nashville. "Susie Mcerin and I spoke with officials from Chattanooga and Murfreesboro about their development strategies and how we could fit a mold somewhere between the two great cities. They were fantastic to work with and both have extended their hand to help Manchester build partnerships with each city and assist in the development strategies we put in place moving forward."

French said he will have a presentation to present to the full board in a "few weeks" to outline the development strategies process.