Private sector job viewed as attractive option compared to rigorous economic development work

Posted on March 10, 2018

Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council’s CEO is leaving to work in the private sector, which an EDC board member said is an attractive opportunity given the difficulty of economic development work in Illinois. (Photo courtesy Facebook/Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council)

By Howard Packowitz

NORMAL – A Normal Town Council member, who serves on the board of the Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council, doubts recent criticism of the council had much to do with EDC head Kyle Ham’s departure.

Ham announced his resignation Friday after accepting an executive’s position with Core Construction of Morton.

Local taxing bodies have recently demanded the EDC provide more frequent and detailed financial reports to show how the agency is spending tax dollars.

Town Council and EDC board member Jeff Fritzen said economic development is tough work, even more so in Illinois because of its fiscal troubles. So, he’s not surprised Ham took a private sector job.

“I can’t speak for Kyle, but if I’m in his position, the opportunity to go into the private sector and work on the other side of this is a pretty attractive thing right now,” said Fritzen.

The EDC said Ham’s legacy includes the additions of Rivian Automotive and Brandt Industries, which received property tax breaks from local governments.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]

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