All LSEDC efforts are centered on expanding, retaining and attracting investment in our community. By attracting jobs and growing the tax base we help to improve the quality of life for businesses and residents alike. As Lee's Summit's marketing and product development arm, our mission requires four strategies which drive everything LSEDC does:
1. Community Product Improvement
Quality attracts quality. We promote a pro-business environment, customer friendly processes, redeveloped commercial and residential neighborhoods, arts and culture and inclusive civic partnerships. By thinking regionally and acting locally, LSEDC engages with like-minded allies in civic dialogue on growth and development issues that impact the community's competitive position — ultimately impacting the quality of life in Lee's Summit.
2. Business Retention and Expansion
Existing business is the linchpin to the future development of Lee's Summit. Most of our growth comes from within. That's why LSEDC works with employers to understand and respond to their needs in managing operating costs and conditions. Existing business growth brings more tax revenues, more jobs and more leadership from already committed employers who are satisfied enough to reinvest in Lee's Summit.
3. Attract Targeted, Higher Paying Industry
Attracting higher paying, quality, targeted industries that contribute to the tax base is the mission of over 50 economic development councils in the Kansas City metro area. The competition is fierce. Therefore, we must be relentless in communicating our competitive advantages and remediating our perceived weaknesses through a community product improvement agenda.
4. Generate a Positive Community Image
LSEDC strives to ensure that Lee's Summit's accomplishments and positive business climate rise above the clutter in the local and regional news. Business leaders and opinion makers must learn that Lee's Summit is a desirable community in which to invest, work, live, play and learn. Implementing a strong brand identity to increase Lee's Summit's visibility is an important strategy for the organization and the entire community.
Jim Devine is 2010 Missouri Professional Economic Developer of the Year
