HISTORY
In 1986, 12 of the 13 counties in the HGAC region experienced levels of distress sufficient to qualify for designation by the EDA as redevelopment areas. Each of the counties developed their own Overall Economic Development Program, along with their own set of goals and objectives. In 1988, when the Gulf Coast Economic Development District was formed, the regional OEDP consolidated the goals into a unified set of six goals. In 1993, the GCEDD Board held a retreat in which they reviewed the regional goals and objectives. The original six goals were retained, and they continue to be relevant to the regional economic development needs. In 1997, the GCEDD Board inserted an additional goal to incorporate the Title IX Economic Adjustment Strategy activities by targeting distress both long-term and sudden and severe in our region. This year the GCEDD has revised its goals to more reflect a coordinated effort of local governments, non-profits and development organizations in the 13 county district.
With the advent of the CEDS, the District Board began with a vision statement, which then was articulated by a framework of supporting goals and objectives. The vision and goals have been reworked by the District's CEDS Committee.
VISION AND GOALS
The Board envisions a healthy regional economy, diversified among a variety of sectors, poised to accommodate economic development of the future, with unprecedented opportunities to the citizens of the Gulf Coast.
| In support of this vision, the following four goals were adopted by the District. They are listed by priority, from highest to lowest. In this case, priority has been set based on the District's abilities rather than on the criticality of the need. The goals provide a sound structure for the activities of the region and are relevant to the needs identified by the GCEDD Board of Directors. |
GOAL 1
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
| Promote Coordination among Local Economic Development Efforts
Serve as a regional economic development information clearinghouse.
Provide technical assistance on economic development programs to local governments,
economic development organizations, and qualified businesses.
Assist with the coordination of identifying problems and solutions for housing, infrastructure.
Provide a forum for sharing information and discussing issues. |
GOAL 2
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
| Advocate Economic Development Projects and Programs of Benefit to the Gulf Coast Region
Maintain District designation and county eligibility for EDA programs.
Review and comment on significant local, state, and federal economic development programs.
Actively support, and assist essential economic development projects and programs within the region.
Develop additional programs as identified to alleviate gaps in service. |
GOAL 3
3.1
3.2
| Facilitate Access to Relevant Economic and Business Data to Support Economic Development Activities
Facilitate access to data resources for local governments and economic development organizations.
Facilitate access to information resources for promoting economic development within the region. |
GOAL 4
4.1
4.2
4.3
| Work to Raise Awareness of Issues Affecting Quality Growth and Development Across the Region
Raise awareness of environmental issues and participate in the development of recommendations
to assist the region on utilizing its environmental assets.
Raise awareness of housing issues and participate in the development of recommendations
to ensure adequate housing for all.
Raise awareness of regional transportation and accessibility issues. |