January 30, 2003

Galveston Economic Development Partnership

Harris "Shrub" Kempner, chair of the Galveston Economic Development Partnership, presided over the annual meeting of the organization in a meeting at the Davidson Ballroom on Thursday.

"Throughout 2002, your GEDP has continued along its mission of supporting the creation of new jobs and expanding the tax base of Galveston Island," Kempner said.  "To accomplish this, we have striven to remain focused on the founding principals of the GEDP."

Kempner cited projects such as the redevelopment of North Broadway, the promotion of unmet demands for new housing, developments on Pelican Island, efforts aimed at improving the  processing of and implementation of projects through governmental allies, enhancement of the climate for bio-technology expansions and strategies for the furtherance of the Port of Galveston to "illustrate our resolve to continue pursuing projects that have significant impacts on the business climate of Galveston Island."

GEDP President Jeff Sjostrom talked in detail about economic development activities during the past year. 

University of Texas Medical Branch President Dr. John Stobo presented an overview of the initiative to expand the bio-safety laboratory at UTMB.

Galveston County Judge Jim Yarbrough updated the group on development of the county's criminal justice center north of Broadway in Galveston.

Clear Lake Area Economic Development Foundation President Jim Reinhartsen and GEDP President Jeff Sjostrom signed an agreement to continue collaboration for economic development of the region.

"Economic development partnerships are important," Reinhartsen said.  "Working together we are stronger."

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