News you can use
News you can use
Helped find $4.3 million for local economic development, $127 million since 2006
Bear Paw Development Corp. Executive Director speaks Thursday as he presents Bear Paw's annual report during its annual meerting at Havre Inn and Suites.
Bear Paw Development Corp. Executive Director Paul Tuss said 2016 was another great year for the economic development organization.
"This good work was because Bear Paw Development has a talented, committed and hardworking staff. I am blessed to be able to work everyday with people who truly make a difference," Tuss said at Bear Paw Development's 47th Annual Meeting Luncheon.
Bear Paw Development helps communities, businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs with economic development projects in Blaine, Chouteau, Hill and Liberty counties, as well as the Fort Belknap and Rocky Boy's Indian reservations.
Tuss said that in 2016 Bear Paw was able to leverage $41.22 from outside sources for every local dollar of local government investment.
Through its activities, Bear Paw Development was also able to create or help retain 64 jobs and coordinate $4,329,123 for business start ups, expansions and community enhancements through grant writing, revolving loan fund investments, bank financing and other sources for business start ups.
A flier at the luncheon says Bear Paw has coordinated $127 million in local funding since 2006.
Tuss thanked his colleagues Director of Operations Michelle Burchard, Director of Loan Services Tiffany Melby; Director of Community Development Michelle Turville; Loan Technician and Brownfields Coordinator Samantha Chagnon; Food and Agriculture Development Center Director Taylor Lyon; Joe LePlante, Small Business Development Center director, and Community Planner Eryn Nissen.
He also thanked Bear Paw Development's Board of Directors and three parting board members, former Hill County Commissioner Jeff LaVoi; Stan Klimas of Chouteau County and Member-At-Large Ken Engellant.
"Ken has spent 21 years as a member of our board going back to 1996. Ken, thanks for everything you have done for Bear Paw and for your wisdom on our board," Tuss said.
Tuss said Burchard is preparing to leave Bear Paw after eight years to become executive director of the Havre Day Activity Center. He thanked Burchard for her "selfless devotion to our organization and our success."
Burchard was then presented with a sketch by local artist Don Greytak, which Tuss said is something that is routinely given to those who have worked for Bear Paw Development.
Reader Comments(0)