Grandview is launching a new process of developing an Economic Development Association. Named Grandview EDGE for Enhancing Development of Grandview’s Economy. Grandview’s EDGE is a grass roots community effort represented by both the public and private sectors in the Grandview Community. The group’s first activity will be gathering information in order to apply for assistance from the Yakima County Development Association (YCDA) and their Entrepreneurial Cities Initiative.

 

The first meeting of Grandview’s EDGE occurred on July 27, 2011 with City Staff, Mayor Childress, members of the business community, the Grandview Chamber of Commerce, YCDA, Yakima Valley Community College, GMC Training Institute, Cellar Door Consultants, Grandview School District and the Sunnyside Community Hospital.

 

A business survey is being developed in preparation for the YCDA Grant Application. The Grandview Chamber, Cellar Door Consultants and GMC Training Institute and the City of Grandview will be joining forces to complete the application and supporting documentation by the August 22, 2011 deadline. The application was successful and our new intern has been selected. She will begin work on Monday October 10, 2011.

 

During our planning session on September 15th 2011, our team formulated a formal mission statement for EDGE:

Enhancing Development of Grandview’s Economy by strengthening existing and attracting new businesses thereby creating opportunities.

 

We completed an initial brainstorming session to affirm our short term goals and establish medium and long term goals. Our next steps will be the implementation of specific goals and strategies over the next few weeks. The new EDGE website is slated go live in early November as soon as funding mechanisms are clarified.

 

Brad Smith

President – Grandview Chamber of Commerce

Chair – EDGE