The City of Vernon hopes to bolster economic growth through a one-of-a-kind approach.
Craig Broderick has started as the economic development planner and it’s believed to be the only position of its kind in the province.
“We want to foster the open for business environment,” said Kevin Poole, economic development manager.
Broderick will report directly to Poole and not the city’s planning department, although he will work with all departments.
Broderick was a city planner from 1995 to 2004 and was director of development services in Coldstream from 2004 to 2012. He was most recently involved in the real estate sector.
“A lot of businesses know Craig and he has great contacts,” said Poole.
Broderick says he’s looking forward to the challenges of being an economic development planner.
“It’s an interesting position where I get to combine my planning knowledge with my experience from commercial real estate,” he said.
Broderick will focus on an array of activities.
“I will work with applicants primarily for commercial, industrial and institutional developments,” he said. “I will also help with the economic development priorities set by council. The city is trying to encourage more investment in the community.”
Broderick believes his primary role is to keep communications flowing with developers.
“There will be one point of contact at the city.”
