The Washington Economic Development Group (WEDG) has started the process to find a new director following the unexpected passing of David Collins in July. The WEDG board has hired a search group which is currently gathering resumes for the board to review.

Treasurer of WEDG and Vice President of Washington State Bank Terry Engelken shares what the board is looking for in the next director, “Many of the same qualities that David [Collins] had. He was very good with people. He understood the needs for housing. He had a background that he knew people in the State of Iowa. One of the things that he did that was really unique, was he was able to bring Debbie Durham, the Iowa Economic Development Director, to Washington to sit down with bankers, local business people primarily that needed help. And she was very attentive to some of the things that were going on in Washington County. And so, that was something that was instrumental that I’m sure wouldn’t have happened without him.”

Engelken adds that the board plans to select interviewees in September and interview them later in September. The goal is to have a new director on board by November 1st.

Collins was key in work on a RISE grant to help pave roadway to Premier 1, the Whitesell project in Washington where Brava Roof Tile is now operating and housing is being developed, a housing analysis for the county, and assisting with a Department of Natural Resources Grant for the Washington Wellness Park, in addition to reaching out to small businesses across the county to help with growth.