St. Louis County, ULI and SLU Offer Economic Development Course
Nancy Schnoebelen
Vice President Marketing & Communications
314.615.7617, nschnoebelen@slcec.com
St. Louis, MO, September 2, 2009 -- 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. To help address these concerns, St. Louis County and the Economic Council, Saint Louis University and Urban Land Institute-St. Louis District Council have developed an eight-week Certificate Program in Economic Development beginning October 1, 2009.
The program provides intensive instruction on the fundamentals of economic development practice. The training course is designed for economic development and public service professionals either new to the field or who wish to have a better understanding of economic development. The course integrates practical perspectives on economic development, organizing, planning, and operating economic development activities and programs.
"This program is targeted to help mayors, city council members, city staff, and chambers to better understand the complex world of development," said St. Louis County Executive Charlie A. Dooley. "I am pleased that two renowned organizations like ULI and Saint Louis University will be partnering with us to serve the region."
Instructors are composed of distinguished practitioners who are experts in a wide range of public and private economic development activities. They will provide progressive curriculum including planning and zoning, green development, deal structuring, marketing, and real estate development.
"Intergovernmental cooperation is central to sustaining regional growth and vitality, and understanding all aspects of economic development is central to effective cooperation," said Jerry Crylen, chairman of the Urban Land Institute-St. Louis District. "Informed public leaders mean smarter development projects and long-term sustainability for communities. This comprehensive certificate program is the answer -- all civic leaders should have one of these certificates on their office wall."
Bob Cropf, chairman of the public policy studies department for Saint Louis University sees this as a timely and important effort for everyone. "In today's economy, it increasingly important for cities and counties to understand the best process for growth," said Cropf. "This education program will benefit local officials and staff by combining both the academic and practical aspects of proper economic development techniques."
To learn more and to register, visit: www.slcec.com/certificate-program.html.
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