The Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council held its first-ever Virtual Annual Meeting on Thursday, September 17th. As part of the celebration, the LSEDC welcomed new Executive Committee and board members. Tim Paulson of Emery Sapp & Sons was announced as the organization’s new chair. Paulson said as chair, his priorities will be to focus on affordable housing, workforce and affordable housing. For Paulson, the commitment to LSEDC is as personal as it is professional.
“I love this community. We’ve been members of this community for approaching 15 years and look forward to retiring in this great area,” Paulson said.
Paulson said as chair he will invest in relationships and community assets to set Lee’s Summit apart from its competitors.
Missouri Department of Economic Development Director Rob Dixon was the featured speaker for the event. Dixon and his team led response effort throughout the economic shutdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Dixon stressed the significance of the LSEDC’s strong partnership with the state, which he said will be of vital importance as the Lee’s Summit business community strives to overcome the challenges of the pandemic.
“Economic Development is a team sport,” said Dixon. “It’s our working relationship today that allows us to be competitive as a state. Certainly in your community as well.”
Several LSEDC investors were also recognized for their leadership throughout the 2019-2020 fiscal year. Dr. Emily Miller was awarded the Innovation in Education award for leading the LSR-7 School District throughout the coronavirus pandemic and as it successfully applied for the Kauffman Foundation Real World Learning Initiative.
Brandy McCombs, owner of IBC, Inc. was awarded the Community Commitment Award for the relocation of her business headquarters from the West Bottoms in Kansas City to Lee’s Summit. The move brought 45 jobs to Lee’s Summit, as well as $2.5million in capital investment.
Matt Pennington with Drake Development was also awarded. Drake was awarded the Community Enhancement award for the 70 acre, $178 million mixed-use Streets of West Pryor development, which will bring new housing, retail, dining and other community amenities.
Outgoing chair Chip Moxley received the Leadership Award for his exemplary commitment to the LSEDC and guiding hand throughout the statewide shutdown.
“The LSEDC is thankful to have the support of our investors, the City of Lee’s Summit and our partner organizations as we lead efforts to repair some of the economic consequences of COVID and strengthen our city to withstand any future economic interruptions,” said LSEDC President & CEO Rick McDowell. “The future in Lee’s Summit is bright with new several new opportunities coming to the area. We look forward to working together with our investors, partners and the city to keep building upon our community.”
Spire was the title sponsor for the event.