The economic development agencies of three counties in the Delaware River corridor — Delaware County, New York, Wayne County, Pennsylvania and Sullivan County, New York — have formed a coalition to provide information to the region's residents about the economic impacts of gas drilling.
The coalition will seek and provide research-based information to help communities make sound business and environmental decisions.
Mary Beth Wood, Executive Director of the Wayne Economic Development Corporation commented, "By pooling our resources, we can gather the best information that's out there for our constituents." Safe and responsible gas development could provide the three counties with much needed jobs and economic growth.
"Sullivan County needs a major economic boost," said Josh Sommers, Chairman of the Sullivan County Partnership for Economic Development. "Working together, this coalition can help prepare our respective communities for the wide-ranging economic opportunities that are beginning to be seen in Pennsylvania."
Bill Willis, Economic Development Specialist for Delaware County sees the local issues as paramount. "Since our primary objective is to support the
growth of existing businesses, we need to be absolutely sure that we are doing everything we can to put these businesses in the best position to take advantage of gas industry opportunities."
Representatives of the coalition will meet frequently to discuss common issues and to encourage a dialogue in the region that promotes economic
development planning and readiness.
The Sullivan County Partnership, founded in 1994, is a non-profit organization focused on the marketing of Sullivan County, leading to job creation and investment in the county.
Over the years, The Partnership has worked to solidify its organizational structure, develop and strengthen relationships with its partners, the County of Sullivan, the Sullivan County Industrial Development Association, the business community and other service organizations.
Through leadership in both the government and private sector, successful strategies were developed that worked to create an environment that makes investing in Sullivan County viable.
Due to its balanced approach to assisting small and large business, The Partnership plays a pivotal role in providing facilitative services and carrying the message of a positive outlook for the future of Sullivan County. Contact the Partnership at 845-794-1110 or see www.scpartnership.com.
As Wayne County's lead economic development organization, WEDCO is a non-profit corporation comprised of businesses in partnership with state, county, and municipal government that realizes a bright economic future depends on investing and planning today. For more information, visit wedcorp.org or contact WEDCO at 32 Commercial Street, Honesdale, PA, 570-253-5334 or info@wedcorp.org.
The Delaware County Department of Economic Development strives to meet the needs of new and existing businesses.
We aim to be your first and last point of contact for any issues or questions that you may have regarding operating, locating or expanding your business in Delaware County, as well what it takes to establish a successful new business. Our primary objective is to support the growth of existing businesses, while encouraging the development of new small business enterprises in Delaware County.
For businesses considering locating in Delaware County that means our commitment to your business doesn't end once you come. We focus our time and energy on the needs of the business community. Contact us at (607) 746-8595 or see www.dcecodev.com.
Honesdale, Pa. —
