EDC

 

Purpose of the Office for Economic Development

 

The purpose of the Office for Economic Development, within the Chamber of Commerce, is to advance the opportunities for both profit and not-for-profit organizations to establish, grow and prosper within the community of Estero. In addition, the office is committed to assuring that a high standard for quality of life is maintained for new and current residents as the community expands. Finally, the office will participate in all regional initiatives that serve the greater good of Southwest Florida communities.

 

Economic Development Council Members

 

Jordan Azis

Stickboy

Technology Advisor

 

Warren Baucom

Lee County Economic Development Office

Director, Partnerships & Entrepreneurial Activities

 

Gary Bonvillian, Ph.D.

Estero Chamber of Commerce

Director of Economic Development

 

Peg Elmore

Director of Business Services

CareerSource Southwest Florida

 

Mary Gibbs, AICP

Village of Estero Director of Community Development

 

Dr. Amir Borges Ferreira Neto

Director of Florida Gulf Coast University

Regional Economic Research Institute

 

Steve Sarkozy

Estero Village Manager

 

Ex Officio Members

 

Nolen Rollins

President

Estero Chamber of Commerce

 

Pamela Mueller

Executive Director

Estero Chamber of Commerce

 

Partnerships

The Village of Estero Council and Staff

The Estero Council of Community Leaders

Horizon Council of Lee County Economic Development

Career Source of Southwest Florida

Lee County Economic Development Office

Florida Gulf Coast University

Regional Economic Research Institute

Local and Regional Business Enterprises

Not for Profit and Faith-Based Organizations

Educational Enterprises

Local Board of Realtors

 

 

Current Initiatives

 

The Office of Economic Development is currently working with the Regional Economic Research Institute, and Florida Gulf Coast University, on a proposal to conduct a comprehensive study of Estero’s opportunities for growth and prosperity as a community. The study, which will be entitled, Assessment and Strategy Recommendations for Economic Development in the Community of Estero, will include the following:

 

History and Evolution of Estero as a Community

Strategic Objectives for Estero’s Future

An Assessment of Major Contributing Factors in Estero’s Economic Development to include…

Existing initiatives directed at economic development

Estero’s capacity for expansion

Workforce analysis

Educational resources

Status of existing enterprises

Rising industries

Creation of a Village Center