Centreville to create strategic economic development plan

07/22/2015| Jade Petrucci

Centreville to create strategic economic development plan

07/22/2015 | Jade Petrucci

The Town of Centreville will create a strategic plan for economic development with help from the State of Maryland.

The Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED) has approved a $15,000 conditional grant to the Town, through the Maryland Economic Development Assistance Authority and Fund (MEDAAF), to help fundthe plan. 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 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."

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