GADC hosts first post-pandemic Economic Development Luncheon

Larry McManus, director of business and community development for the Office of the Governor, speaks at the GADC Economic Development Luncheon.

Courtesy photos

GADC directors are, from left, Daisy Scheske Freeman, Keith Schauer, Gary Mobbs, Dr. Kenneth Gottwald, Britney Jones Caka, President David Lindemann, Bridgette Tomas Burnett, Vice President Robert Bland, Amanda Reed Smith, Treasurer Josh Gray, Joey Evans, Jason Fogle and Secretary Holly Baker Danz.

Courtesy photos

Posted Thursday, April 24, 2025 10:45 am

Special to the Inquirer

The Gonzales Area Development Corporation (GADC) hosted its first Economic Development Luncheon since the COVID-19 pandemic on April 15, 2025, at the First Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.

This marked a meaningful return for the event, which has long brought together elected officials, business leaders, and community stakeholders to discuss the economic future of Gonzales and the surrounding region. With growth accelerating across Texas, the GADC saw this as a pivotal time to reconnect and share updates.

The keynote speaker was Larry McManus, director of business and community development for the Office of the Governor. McManus provided valuable insights into current trends in economic development and tourism, along with projections for how these trends may shape rural and small-town economies like Gonzales. A Q&A session followed his address, offering attendees the chance to engage directly with state-level leadership.

The event was proudly sponsored by GVEC Economic Development, Gonzales Economic Development, and the Gonzales Area Development Corporation.