Cossatot selects economic development coordinator
The University of Arkansas Cossatot has selected Lisa Taylor of De Queen as Economic Development Coordinator for Sevier County.
The new position is the product of a collaboration between the University of Arkansas Cossatot, Rural Development Authority of Sevier County, Sevier County Industrial Board and Sevier County Judge’s Office.
Taylor has worked during the past 18 years to improve the quality of life through economic development for small towns. She has collaborated with various community members and organizations to achieve common goals.
“I value the input of others and feel everyone has a part to play in making our community the best it can be,” Taylor said.
Taylor served seven years as executive director for the Pushmataha County Chamber of Commerce. She supervised the Antler’s Main Street program and was able to develop and restore their downtown to historical integrity.
She will have a goal of acquiring funds needed to implement county and city economic development projects.
“These projects take buy-in from the entire community. We will need that kind of support in Sevier County,” Taylor said.
“While every single person in Sevier County plays a part in helping the county grow, Lisa provides us that one focal point through which everything that pertains to economic development can hopefully flow, and for our county, this is a first,” said UA Cossatot Chancellor Steve Cole.
Taylor’s priority is to develop a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for Sevier County. The process will involve conversations and vision-casting with community members, local leadership, and agencies, Cole said.
Taylor will also supervise the redesign and maintenance of the Sevier County website to connect with potential industry.
“Lisa will be reaching out to state and federal agencies who can assist in recruiting new businesses into the county. We’ve never had someone in this role before,” said Sevier County Judge Greg Ray said.
For more information, contact Taylor at 870-584-1184, ltaylor@cccua.edu, or at her office on UA Cossatot’s De Queen campus.