The new Executive Director for the DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC), Mark Williams, talked to Rotarians this week about his background and the outlook for economic development in the county. Williams succeeds Paul Borek who retired in September after 15 years leading the DCEDC.
Williams began his remarks by giving special credit to his parents, both World War II veterans, for his service-oriented outlook. He is no stranger to the region, having grown up in Mendota and then served in area economic development roles including as executive director of Growth Dimensions (serving Boone County), Economic Development Manager for the City of Rockford, and Executive Director of the Greater Freeport Partnership (serving Freeport and Stephenson County). He serves on several statewide economic development boards. He has been instrumental in successfully implementing various economic development tools such as Enterprise Zones and Tax Increment Financing Districts. Williams is a graduate of Southern Illinois University.
Williams credited his predecessor with achieving significant countywide development interest and growth over the last few years. This translates into increased industrial-related property evaluations that help reduce property tax rates. Figures presented by Williams showed overall industrial-related investment in the county since the DCEDC was founded in 1987 totals over $4.8 billion with over $2.7 billion occurring since 2020. Williams says this shows how economic development is really a long-term strategic discipline. He noted that for this to continue there needs to be planning and support on where to locate future industrial-type development. He added that much of this growth will be from businesses already here.
Williams says his approach to economic development is to look at various programs as cost reduction tools to make it easy for companies to decide to expand or locate here. He noted the importance of reliable and abundant electric power, good road systems, and an available well-trained workforce as key ingredients for continued economic growth. He considers Northern Illinois University a key player for creative product and workforce development. More information about the DCEDC is available from their website: www.DCEDC.org