Jim Cooper retiring as JEDC exec

Jim Cooper, executive director of the Obion County Joint Economic Development Council, announced his retirement at a press conference at noon today.
On Monday, Cooper informed OCJEDC chairman Jim Rippy of his retirement, which is effective Monday.
In March 2004, Cooper accepted the position of executive director of the OCJEDC, which is comprised of the Obion County Industrial Development Corporation and the Obion County Chamber of Commerce. He continued to serve in that capacity throughout his tenure with the organization.
He was involved with many projects in Union City and Obion County and helped in the development of the Northwest Tennessee Industrial Park and securing of various grants that improved that park.
Several of these grants have been funded in this year’s budget by the City of Union City to further improve the park.  With his help, Greenfield Products is now located and operates in the new Industrial Park, according to a press release this morning. A second spec building has been built to attract industry to the park under his direction. He has also helped in securing various grants for training in local industries. He is a member of the I-69 coalition and serves as a representative to various state organizations.
Over the next two months, the Obion County Industrial Development Council and the Obion County Chamber of Commerce will be in the process of reorganizing. A committee has been appointed to discuss the future structure of the OCJEDC and its related organizations.
This committee is expected to meet the needs of the member organizations and the needs of both Union City and Obion County toward the economic development of this area.
For purposes of reorganization, the following committees have been established:  Industrial Recruitment, Transportation, Tourism, Retail Development and Training Center. OCJEDC board members and staff will serve on these committees, according to today’s press release.

Published in The Messenger 11.10.10

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