The Search is On to Find New Economic Development Director

The search is on – and the expectations will be high when the city hires a new economic development director to fill Peggy Brennan’s shoes when she retires on July 5.

The city is looking to fill the position quickly, and with a qualified candidate, as members of the City Council have already put out an advertisement seeking a replacement for the 11-year economic development director.

“We need to continue to work to grow the grand list and to build on the tax base,” City Manager Lawrence Kendzior said last month.

In a struggling economy and in a city where there is a lot already going on that could help rebuild the community, officials said the position is likely to attract a lot of attention and well-qualified applicants interested in joining the city’s ranks.

“The job still carries an element of grant administration, though some of those duties were shifted to the economic development assistant. Brennan was responsible for securing much of the funding for the demolition of the International Silver Factory H building. She was involved in securing several other grants,” the Record-Journal wrote.

The city’s website calls for someone to “be a part of Meriden’s future,” saying that the new director will be a major part of projects including TOD development, creation of a central city park and new mixed income housing.

In addition, applicants should carry a bachelor’s degree in economics, urban planning or business and public administration. A Master’s Degree is preferred, the website states.

Salary for the position is $85,000, the website states.

TELL US: What is the most pressing economic issue in Meriden? What qualifications would you look for in the new director?

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