Ian McCain, Economic Development Manager John Kraus, Community Development Fellow
P: 586-445-3661
E:

Welcome to the Economic Development Department!

The Economic Development Manager is located within the City Manager’s Office, and is responsible for promoting business and economic development in Eastpointe, with a particular focus on identifying resources for local business owners; community assets; the Downtown Development Authority (DDA); and interfacing with local, state, and federal economic development agencies.

2024-2025 PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES

Continue community and stakeholder engagement for construction projects, including 9 Mile Road, Gratiot water main replacements, the creation of Civic Pointe community gathering space, replacing DDA lighting, installing green stormwater infrastructure (GSI), and implementing other ‘downtown’ type improvements. Concurrently, provide administrative and marketing support to the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), including district maintenance, the Small Business Growth Grant Program, and continued Children’s Garden enhancements. Finally, support the creation and or updates to the Eastpointe Master Plan, Eastpointe Economic Development Strategy, and Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe’s (RARE) 5-year Master Plan.

Implement a comprehensive business retention and expansion (BR&E) program, including scheduling personal site visits and meetings with owners to assess business climate issues and concerns, particularly with the ongoing reconstruction projects. Launch an entrepreneurship training course and Business Support Organizations (BSO) speaker series in partnership with the Eastpointe Memorial Library and local BSO’s to support new and existing businesses with resources for them to start and grow their enterprise in Eastpointe.

Complete the City of Eastpointe’s Redevelopment Ready Community (RRC) recertification process through the State of Michigan’s Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), ensuring best practices are implemented in all planning, zoning, and economic development activities.  Supervise fellow(s) and/or intern(s) in implementing programs to support residents and business owners, identifying opportunities for grants, and other tasks as assigned.

Establish and maintain data on existing city businesses and vacant commercial buildings, including properties located within the DDA District and CDBG-eligible census tracts. Work with the Building Department to support vacant property registration, and create a program to match owners of vacant buildings with potential business and/or property owners.

Assist with Macomb County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Grant(s), including identifying potential projects based upon community needs and the Master Plan, submitting applications, and meeting the fair housing requirements. Identify, apply, and administer additional relevant economic development and planning grants.