In 2011, I had the privilege of being asked by Governor Andrew Cuomo to co-chair the Central New York Regional Economic Development Council (CNYREDC) when the councils were first created to provide strategic direction to our region’s economic-development efforts. I am extremely honored to have been given the opportunity to serve in this capacity, and […]
In 2011, I had the privilege of being asked by Governor Andrew Cuomo to co-chair the Central New York Regional Economic Development Council (CNYREDC) when the councils were first created to provide strategic direction to our region’s economic-development efforts.
I am extremely honored to have been given the opportunity to serve in this capacity, and proud of what we have accomplished. However, as with all things, change is both necessary and constructive and it is time for a new leader with new ideas, and a fresh approach. Therefore, at the end of this year I will step down from this appointed position.
I am encouraged and excited that Randy Wolken, president and CEO of the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY), has been selected to take on this important role. His knowledge, experience, and perspectives will serve our region and community well as we continue to pursue state investments for key projects. I will continue to serve as a member of the council. Dr. Danielle Laraque-Arena will remain as council co-chair and I have every confidence in her ability to continue the work we’ve started. She is an energetic and thoughtful advocate, deeply engaged with our own organization, who is poised and ready to build on our efforts to bring jobs, investment, and continued revitalization to our region. Alongside the other council members, we remain steadfast and focused on driving impact for this community through planning, research and collaboration.
I am deeply proud of this region’s track record. Over six rounds, Central New York has received more investment than any other region in the state. All told, including $500 million through the Upstate Revitalization Initiative (URI), the region has been awarded nearly a billion dollars to support more than 475 local projects designed to grow jobs and strengthen companies. This level of investment is truly unprecedented, not just in New York State but across the country. It is a true testament to our vision, and the Governor’s commitment to investing in upstate New York. The strategies and approaches we brought to the table have been adopted and amplified by the state including, Global NY, opportunity agendas, Hot Spots, government modernization and, of course, our ability to lead the advancement of the unmanned aerial systems sector. Most importantly, we will continue to pursue the bold vision we outlined in the URI.
As we look to the future, CenterState CEO will continue to play a role shaping the projects that drive economic opportunities for our community. As a member of the council I will be in a position to advocate on behalf of our members and projects that we feel align with our region’s assets and strategies. I look forward to continuing the progress we have started and supporting Randy as he takes on this new role for our entire region.
Robert M. (Rob) Simpson is president and CEO of CenterState CEO, the primary economic-development organization for Central New York. This viewpoint is drawn and edited from the “CEO Focus” email newsletter that the organization sent to members on Oct. 19.
