St. Clair County explores reviving Economic Development Corporation for future initiatives

The St. Clair County Board of Commissioners convened on April 3, 2025, to discuss various initiatives aimed at enhancing economic development and community engagement within the county. The meeting began with a presentation on the "Experience Southeast Michigan" program, which aims to create promotional videos that showcase the unique attributes of local communities. The program, driven by community input, has produced videos highlighting downtown areas, parks, and other local features, and is available for communities interested in promoting their assets.

Following the presentation, commissioners engaged in a discussion regarding the structure and operations of the organization behind the program. Questions were raised about the legal status of the organization, its budget, and its operational transparency. The organization is classified as a quasi-governmental entity, and it was noted that all meetings are public and accessible, although they are not streamed online.

The meeting then shifted focus to economic development initiatives, particularly the potential revival of the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) that was originally established in 1978. Administrator Controller Carrie Hepting presented a memo outlining potential next steps for the county's involvement in economic development, emphasizing the need to define the county's role and structure programs accordingly. The board discussed the importance of transparency and public engagement in economic development efforts, contrasting past practices with a desire for a more community-focused approach.

Commissioners expressed interest in exploring partnerships with Michigan State University for economic development services and discussed the need to review existing legal frameworks to ensure compliance and effectiveness. The conversation highlighted a desire for a more accountable and transparent economic development strategy that serves the public interest rather than solely corporate interests.

As the meeting concluded, commissioners acknowledged the importance of promoting tourism and local attractions as part of their economic development strategy. Plans to create a quality of life video for the county were discussed, which could serve as a tool to attract businesses and visitors alike.

Overall, the meeting underscored a commitment to redefining economic development in St. Clair County, with a focus on community involvement, transparency, and leveraging local assets to foster growth and engagement. Further discussions and workshops are anticipated to refine these initiatives and establish a clear path forward.