County works with partners to educate government officials on business
The St. Louis American
April 1, 2010
A dozen area government officials now have a certificate attesting to their improved understanding of the complex world of development.
An economic development program offered by St. Louis County, Urban Land Institute-St. Louis District Council and Saint Louis University recently graduated its first class of nearly two dozen graduates.
The eight-week certificate program, designed for mayors, city council members, city and chambers staff, began in September 2009 and concluded in March.
The certificate course stretched beyond county and state lines and included attendees from St. Louis County municipalities, City of St. Louis, State of Missouri, and O'Fallon, IL. Plans are under way to offer a second certificate economic development program in the fall.
"Given the economic conditions of today, there is a great deal of pressure on cities, counties and development entities to manage costs and find ways to grow economically," said St. Louis County Executive Charlie A. Dooley.
"I am very pleased that renowned organizations like ULI and Saint Louis University partnered with St. Louis County to serve the region."
The program combined the academic and practical aspects of proper economic development techniques. Instructors were comprised of distinguished practitioners, experts in a wide range of public and private economic development activities.
"The course was invaluable and provided instruction on a variety of economic development topics," said Jason Archer, business development manager of the automotive industry for the Missouri Department of Economic Development.
"It reinforced the importance of how intergovernmental cooperation is central to sustaining regional growth and vitality. I highly recommend the program."
