State Assists Town of Centerville with Strategic Development Plan
BALTIMORE, MD (July 22, 2015) – The Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED) announced today that the State has approved a $15,000 conditional grant to the Town of Centreville in Queen Anne’s County to partially fund a strategic plan for economic development. The funding will be provided by DBED’s Maryland Economic Development Assistance Authority and Fund (MEDAAF) and will help Centreville complete the plan by the end of this year. To assist with project costs, the town will provide a matching contribution of $15,000.
“The State is pleased to partner with the Town of Centreville to support their strategic plan for economic development, which will establish a clear framework for attracting and retaining businesses and promoting their key assets,” said DBED Secretary Mike Gill. “Our goal at DBED is to work with all regions of the state to help them grow jobs, add new businesses and increase their competitive advantage.”
The Town of Centreville plans to use its strategic economic development plan to review current strategies and objectives for community revitalization and economic development, and will adjust any existing approaches to growth and development as necessary. The town anticipates focusing on existing businesses, historic preservation, environmental assets, tourism, transportation, and the availability of utilities, while promoting Centreville as a highly desirable place to live and do business. The planning process will also include creating possible funding sources, including a micro loan for business assistance.
“As the Town of Centreville is not only the County Seat but one of the designated growth areas, we are pleased it is developing an economic development strategic plan,” said Queen Anne’s County Commission president James Moran. “We look forward to continuing to work cooperatively with the town on future economic development initiatives.”
“Centreville started this effort when the town council formed the Centreville Economic Development Authority, and has pursued its initial task of developing a community-wide economic development plan,” said Jim Beauchamp, Centreville Town council member. “We couldn’t have done it without the support of DBED and Queen Anne’s County.”
About DBED: The Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development stimulates private investment and creates jobs by attracting new businesses, encouraging the expansion and retention of existing companies, and providing financial assistance to Maryland companies. The Department promotes the State’s many economic advantages and markets local products and services at home and abroad to spur economic development and international investment, trade and tourism. Because they are major economic generators, the Department also supports the Arts, film production, sports and other special events. For more information, visit www.choosemaryland.org.
MEDIA CONTACT
Karen Glenn Hood Director, Media Relations and Public Affairs Maryland Department of Business & Economic Development 401 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD 21202 O 410-767-6318 | C 443-463-8129 | karen.glennhood@Maryland.gov
