RD280 - Annual Report on the Rural Economic Development Strategic Plan
Executive Summary: Introduction Pursuant to the Code of Virginia, § 2.2-2238.1, this report highlights initiatives implemented by the Commonwealth to spur economic development in rural Virginia and make recommendations about additional measures that would contribute to rural economic development. As mandated by the legislation, this plan addresses education and workforce development, infrastructure, traditional industrial development, recreation and cultural enhancement, agribusiness, and the development of a revolving loan fund to help start or expand entrepreneurial activities. The Act requires the entities listed below to jointly develop and implement the plan: Virginia Economic Development Partnership Center for Rural Virginia Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development Virginia Resources Authority Virginia Department of Business Assistance Virginia Tobacco indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission Virginia Employment Commission Virginia Tourism Corporation Virginia Community College System Institutions of higher education located in rural regions Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Process Michael Schewel, Secretary of Commerce and Trade, convened a meeting of representatives of the named agencies to develop a process for producing the strategic plan. As the Center for Rural Virginia was still forming and had no permanent staff, it was not included in the meeting. The participants discussed the development of a rural economic development strategic plan and adopted a work plan for the project. Each of the participating agencies appointed a contact person to represent that agency and selected a steering group to manage the project. Participating agencies developed a description of the various programs under their purview that assist in rural economic development. A workgroup comprised of representatives of participating agencies reviewed the existing programs and the Governor’s economic development strategic plan adopted during the first year of his term and surveyed the attainment of the plan’s goals and objectives. Finally, based on the Governor’s objectives and current agency efforts, the workgroup suggested additional goals for future rural economic development efforts. These materials were provided as a subsequent meeting of the Secretary of Commerce and Trade and representatives of the agencies named in § 2.2-2238.1 of the Code of Virginia for consideration and further revision. Those participating in this process were concerned that they not preempt the statutory responsibilities of the Center for Rural Virginia as stated in § 2.2-2723 of the Code of Virginia. Further, the participants feel that rural economic development efforts in the future should be cognizant of the various existing programs and resources that currently assist rural economic development. |
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