Wickliffe CDT proving to be great tool

Wickliffe Mayor Joe Sakacs has said the City Development Team, or CDT, is proving to be a great tool in helping the city facilitate economic development.

“I am no longer in the dark about all the opportunities here,” he said. “I can now focus on these things.”

With economic development and business retention a priority, Wickliffe formed the CDT earlier this year. The n group is made up of nine people, and among the local government officials that make up the team are Sakacs, Fire Chief Jim Powers, Building Commissioner Ray Sack and Arielle Hilliard from the Lake County Health Department.

“This group has already centralized communication and has improved coordination between city, and county agencies,” Sakacs said. “My goal is to talk to as many businesses as I can to let them know we are here for them.”

Currently meeting twice a month, the group has a focus of communicating with and assisting developers, as well as to coordinate inquiries regarding economic development. The city recently welcomed two new businesses — Triumphant Counseling Services and Sam’s Southern Eatery — and is currently working out the details of the CRA for the incoming Circle K.

“My 2022 was getting everything ready and prepared for this year,” Sakacs

“This group has already centralized communication and has improved coordination between city, and county agencies.” — Joe Sakacs, Wickliffe mayor

said. “Good things are on the horizon. I know I say that a lot, but when you’re dealing with city issues, sometimes it will move at a turtle’s pace, but I’ve been working hard to make sure that we have a great year.”