GEDC Board seeking applications

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A couple of unexpected events have changed the structure of Gonzales Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors. The untimely death of Board Treasurer Keith Brown has left one vacancy while Board President Crissy O'Neal leaving Gonzales left another vacancy.

City Councilman Dan Blakemore promptly filled O'Neal's position, but another opening still remains.

GEDC CEO Genora Young said Brown was a valued member of the GEDC Board.

"He was proud to serve as Treasurer of the Organization and was a strong supporter of the BYK USA expansion project," Young said. "He will sincerely be missed."

O'Neal said she made the decision to leave the board only after her employer, Sage Capital Bank, purchased a new banking location in Spring Branch, where she was promoted and relocated to assist in the growth of that branch.

"My time on the GEDC board was very fulfilling for me. There are a number of projects that I am proud of, but I believe the most unifying project was the Come and Take It Flag and flag pole," O'Neal said. “There was some opposition, but we pressed forward and got the job done. The citizens and visitors love it. I still believe that it is a huge draw for our downtown."

O'Neal is proud of the many accomplishments of the board.

"I think our recent participation in the BYK expansion will have great benefit for the city as a whole," O'Neal said. "Genora’s leadership on this project was second to none."

O'Neal said the board members she worked with over the years all have their strengths and are great people.

"I appreciate their service to our community," she said. "I also appreciate the city council for trusting in and giving me the opportunity to serve my hometown. Gonzales is a wonderful place to grow up and live. Gonzales will always be my home."

Young noted she was thankful for O'Neal's service and support of the many successful GEDC projects, including the record-breaking BYK USA expansion, O'Neal and Brown both strongly supported.

"During [O'Neal's] time of public service the Gonzales Economic Development Corporation purchased and installed the world's largest Come and Take It flag in Gonzales' downtown area; we assisted with the funding of the splash pad in Lions Park and spearheaded the collaborative effort that secured the largest economic development project in Gonzales' history," Young said. “I wish her luck with her promotion and offer my sincere thanks for her board guidance. Working with her was an honor."

According to Young, Blakemore will be an asset to the board and is knowledgeable about corporation activities and developments.

"Councilman Dan Blakemore was actively engaged with and supportive in the negotiations of the BYK USA expansion project," Young said. "I look forward to working with him as he serves on the GEDC board."

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