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Duluth will begin search for new Business & Economic Development Director

[Duluth, MN] – The City of Duluth’s Director of Business & Economic Development, Heather Rand, has announced her resignation from the City effective November 9, 2018. Rand also served as the Executive Director of the Duluth Economic Development Authority, had oversight over the Workforce Development division and the Duluth 1200 Fund, a non-profit board. During her three-year tenure, Rand has managed many economic development projects and led the city’s efforts to continue building momentum in the revitalization of our business sectors throughout Duluth.

Reflecting on Rand’s service, Mayor Emily Larson stated, “Heather has provided calm keen leadership overseeing our many demanding economic development projects. We know that her efforts and hard work put Duluth’s future on solid footing. We appreciate Heather’s contributions to the City and its residents.”

Some achievements under Rand and her team included increasing the City’s workforce housing supply by providing resources to new, market rate apartment buildings such as Kenwood Village, Endi, Grandview Estates and Cityview Flats, addressing the workforce shortage gap; stimulating growth by supporting private sector investments for business expansions such as maurices, Altec Industries and Cirrus Aircraft; aiding in the completion of the historic NorShor Theatre and West Duluth Theatre renovations; being a catalyst for redevelopment of industrial brownfield sites in the Waseca Industrial Park; encouraging small business innovation and job creation with new revolving loan funds; and helping to shape Duluth’s future through new partnerships and marketing efforts. 

“It has been my great honor to serve both the Ness and Larson administration, DEDA and the 1200 Fund Boards of Directors these last three years. I marvel at what we have collectively achieved in such a short time frame. I am proud of our accomplishments and look forward to seeing many great projects come to fruition from the City’s current economic development project portfolio,” said Heather Rand. 

The City plans to post the position October 1 to allow time for the hiring process and ensure a smooth transition. This Director level position is appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council.    

Media calls should be directed to Keith Hamre, Acting Chief Administrative Officer at (218) 730-5370. 

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