WILMINGTON — The Ohio Economic Development Association (OEDA) presented its Annual Excellence Awards at its 2019 Annual Summit, held at the Embassy Suites Columbus-Dublin.
The program recognizes the achievements of individuals and organizations throughout Ohio in the areas of economic and workforce development.
The Clinton County Port Authority (CCPA) received an award from the OEDA in the category of Best Project. The project submission highlighted the return of Air Cargo Operations to the Wilmington Air Park, via the Amazon Air air cargo operation that began operation in late June of this year.
“Bringing scheduled air cargo operations back to the Wilmington Air Park was a genuine community effort,” said CCPA Executive Director Dan Evers. “It required the active engagement of local public and private sector organizations as well as elected and appointed leaders, and they all delivered to make this opportunity a reality for our community.”
The award determination is not dependent on the number of jobs created or retained, size of site, or the amount of total investment. Rather, this award will showcase a unique approach to the project, which can include a public-private partnership, local collaboration, innovative financing and/or incentives, overcoming historic barriers or obstacles, or been a catalyst for economic development in the community.
As noted in the submission, this project was uniquely suited for this location. Along with the local partnerships that were critical to achieving success, this effort was well supported by the community’s regional and state economic development partners The Dayton Development Coalition and JobsOhio, as well as elected officials throughout the State. CCPA officials expressed specific thanks to State Sen. Bob Peterson and State Rep. Shane Wilkin.
“We truly appreciate the support of our partners for listening, for reacting quickly and for providing the technical and logistical support – often at a moment’s notice – that was critical to the success of this multi-faceted effort,” added Evers.
“We were delighted that Dan Evers was recognized as a finalist in the category of Economic Development Professional of the Year,” said CCPA Board Chair Walt Rowsey. “We know the effort that has gone into the many projects in the last year, and to be recognized by those at the top of the profession across the State, is certainly something special.”
Additionally, the OEDA recognized its second class Ohio Certified Economic Developers at the Awards Luncheon. The class of 11 completed coursework and Capstone projects meeting the established standards for the OhioCED Certification. The OhioCED credential is recognized state-wide.
Clinton County Port Authority Associate Director Beth Huber was a member of this second class of graduates from the newly established professional certification program.
“The OEDA established this program to promote a best-practices baseline for Economic Development professionals in Ohio,” said Evers, who was a member of the OEDA Board of Directors during the development of this Certification. “The classroom and project work expose students to several facets of economic development, and require candidates to demonstrate proficiency through a ‘hands on’ capstone project.
“It speaks volumes about Beth that she was able to achieve this certification. Her course work is already adding value to our county-wide economic development efforts.”
