Grant County EDC's Smith earns honor

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Jon Smith, managing director of the Grant County Economic Development Council, is among 17 people nationwide to receive the designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) this year.

The national recognition "denotes mastery of principal skills in economic development, professional attainments, and a commitment to personal and professional growth," according to the council.

Smith is a five-year employee of the council and worked with many companies on relocation and expansion projects.

Five businesses decided to come to Grant County, resulting in about $150 million to the local communities, $10 million in annual payroll and 165 new jobs.

He is the second council employee to earn the designation.

Terry Brewer, Grant EDC's executive director, is also a CEcD.

There are more than 1,200 CEcDs in the U.S. and fewer than 20 in the state.

- Staff report