Press Release

Williams County, Ohio & U.S. EDA Collaborate to Develop Economic Strategy that Encourages Job Creation and Growth

August 18, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) today announced a $75,000 grant to Williams County, Ohio, to help develop an economic adjustment strategy that will create jobs and grow the local economy, which has been affected by the restructuring of the American automotive industry.

"Assisting in the economic recovery of our nation's auto communities is a priority for the Obama Administration," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development John R. Fernandez. "This EDA grant will help Williams County develop a strategy for businesses to collaborate and take advantage of local resources, spurring job growth, innovation and entrepreneurship."

"This strategy will help public, private and business officials adjust the local economy into one more appropriately aligned with global trends," said Lewis Hilkert, Williams County Board President.

The strategy will allow stakeholders to give input on how to best retool the county to adapt to recent major job loss due to the restructuring of the automotive and automotive-related manufacturing sectors. This strategy will also allow the local workforce and economic development officials to align its workforce to meet the needs of global trends.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov): This year, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) marks 45 years of public service, with a mission of leading the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster job creation, collaboration and innovation.