Village Hires New Economic Development Coordinator

The filled a new part-time position that was created this fiscal year after village officials decided to bring previous economic development activities in-house. 

Martha Corner is the new economic development coordinator for the village and started her duties last week, said Village Manager Mark Franz. Corner will report directly to Franz, and comes to Glen Ellyn following her previous economic development posts in Elmhurst and Arlington Heights. According to village budget information, Corner will draw a $48,000 salary, and will also receive village health benefits.

In Feburary, it would bring the efforts of the in-house, which would eliminate a duplication of development efforts. The EDC was led by Janie Patch who was responsible for spurring economic development in Glen Ellyn's three business districts. According to village budget documents, $70,000 was provided to the EDC for its services during the 2011-2012 fiscal year. Accounting for contributions to Social Security, health benefits and the Illinois Municpal Retirement Fund the village's total personnel expenditure for Corner's position is $57,700. 

Although there were some cost savings associated with eliminating the EDC to create a part-time position, Franz said the change was more about creating efficiencies and aligning the economic development methods already happening at village hall.  

Franz said the village reviewed 45 applications and interviewed 10 candidates before choosing from five finalists. During the remainder of 2012, Franz said Corner's main focus will be focusing on the potential Fresh Market development on Roosevelt Road, Stacy's Corners, and the corporate center on Roosevelt Road near Route 53.