Town of Garner, NC
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Economic Development Partnerships
The Economic Development Department collaborates with local and state partners to foster a business-friendly environment, encourage responsible growth of the Town's tax base, and improve the quality of life for all of Garner's residents.
The Town provides funding and staff support to three local economic development organizations, the Garner Economic Development Corporation, the Downtown Garner Association, and the Garner Chamber of Commerce. Through long standing public-private partnerships, these organizations work with the Town to encourage investment, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Garner Economic Development Corporation
The Garner Economic Development Corporation (GEDC) is an economic development non-profit organization that is dedicated to improving the quality of life of all Garner residents through business recruitment, supporting entrepreneurship and the retention of existing employers.
The GEDC is led by a seven-member board of directors. The board advises the Town Council and works with local leaders to promote and further the Town of Garner's economic development interests.
Board of Directors
- Jeff Swain, Chairman - Retired Municipal Manager
- Elmo Vance, Board Member, Town Council - Engineer
- Buck Kennedy, Board Member - Retired Engineer
- Megan Pumarejo, Board Member - Real Estate Broker
- Bill Moyer, Board Member - Financial Planner
- Kevin Payne, Board Member - Local Banker
Downtown Garner Association
Formed in 2005, the Downtown Garner Association (DGA) fosters downtown revitalization through the administration of Garner’s Main Street program in a public-private partnership with the Town of Garner. The organization received 501(c)3 status in 2007. This 5-9 member Board of Directors works with the town’s Downtown Development Manager to set strategic priorities for downtown economic development within a context of historic preservation.
Board of Directors
- Joyce Stephens, Chair
- Kathy Behringer, Council Liaison, Board Member
- Bahr Jervay, Board Member
- Jake Howland, Board Member
- Mary Smalling, Board Member
- Steve Cicci, Board Member
- Rachel Tourdot, Board Member
- David Forrest, Board Member