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News story puplished on 06/22/2006
Published by Snohomish County EDC
EVERETT, WA -- Focused Forward’s investment campaign numbers are in and two things are clear: the Economic Development Council of Snohomish County is ready to move ahead with its aggressive five-year targeted growth plan, and local business leaders trust the EDC to get the job done.
With 84 pledged investors, the campaign has brought in more than $3.2 million. Planned follow-ups are expected to yield even more investment.
“Our business leaders have told us they support serious and measurable economic growth right here in our county, and they want the EDC to be a major player in developing a local economy that will provide high-wage jobs for more people living here,” said Deborah Knutson, president of the EDC of Snohomish County. “Now we’re ready to start putting those objectives into action.”
The thorough investment campaign led by volunteer leader Rick Cooper, CEO, Everett Clinic was just the first step. Now the EDC will prepare to carry out its specific targets during its 2006-2010 program. A capital investment goal of $750 is one goal. Other goals include 5,000 jobs created and retained in specific industries, along with an annual average wage of $42,000 for new jobs created within those targeted industries - which include aerospace, life sciences, electronics and related manufacturing.
An intense focus on the retention and expansion of existing businesses in the county, along with attracting and recruiting brand new businesses is the EDC’s aim. While still taking a regional approach, the EDC’s efforts will be focused specifically on Snohomish County’s economy. And the EDC is backing up its commitment to these specific goals by transferring activities that shift attention away from these main purposes to other groups and agencies.
"The success of the Focused Forward campaign can be attributed to the confidence our investors have in the future of Snohomish County and the EDC. We appreciate your generosity and commitment of both time and resources" said Rick Cooper. Knutson and the EDC staff offer thanks to all the volunteers who successfully moved Focused Forward to its goal and beyond, and the investors who listened to the campaign message and made the decision to invest in Snohomish County’s economic growth.
Reprinted with permission. Copyright © 2007 Snohomish County EDC. All right reserved.
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