By HOLLY GASKILL
In an update Monday, County Attorney Ted Storer said the county and city of Bluffton continue to work on an interlocal agreement for economic development.
Storer said he re-sent a proposal from this summer to the city’s attorney, Tony Crowell, for review. The interlocal agreement will outline terms for supporting and guiding a new Economic Development Commission housed under the Mayor’s Office.
This agreement follows the mid-October hiring announcement of Jessica Beste, a Bluffton resident, as the department’s director. Beste also began in the role in October. Wells County had not had an economic development director since April when the partnership with the Wells County Chamber of Commerce ended.
The parties have stated their intention to eventually create a new nonprofit entity for the Economic Development Commission, but more specific plans have not been given. Commissioner Jeff Stringer stated the groups will meet Friday — the first time with Beste as director.
holly@news-banner.com
