Glens Falls, Warren County join forces for economic development

GLENS FALLS, NY (08/17/2013)(readMedia)-- The Economic Development Corporation in Warren County has named Edward Bartholomew, current economic/community development director for the City of Glens Falls and the city's former mayor, as its new President, effective August 19, 2013.

Bartholomew assumes the helm of EDC after former EDC President Vicki Pratt Gerbino left the organization in February for a position in Michigan. The search process over the past five months has run in parallel with a multi-organizational effort to create a "one-stop shop" for businesses seeking economic development assistance.

"It is always exciting to welcome a new leader to an organization, especially someone with Ed Bartholomew's talents. Yet, this announcement is particularly meaningful for EDC, for Ed himself, and for many other entities in Warren County, because it reflects the new collaborative focus we all have adopted to simplify the process of serving existing and incoming businesses," noted Chuck Barton, EDC Board Chairman.

"I look forward to working with the staff and board of EDC to serve local businesses, and to share the unique qualities of Warren County with a national audience, as we focus on growing Warren County's economy. I am very grateful to Mayor Diamond for agreeing to this cooperative arrangement, where I will continue to serve the City while also focusing on County issues," Bartholomew said.

EDC expects Bartholomew to make a smooth transition during the remainder of 2013, gradually increasing the amount of time spent on county economic development activities.

As a gubernatorial appointee to Governor Cuomo's Regional Economic Development Council for the Capital Region, I look forward to continuing to work with Mr. Bartholomew on economic development opportunities throughout the region. I am pleased to share with the council what we have accomplished in Warren County and the City of Glens Falls, and it is of true benefit for all of us that Warren County is building a better system for facilitating economic development through collaboration, cooperation and transparency," noted Omar Usmani, Executive Partner at Aeon Nexus Corporation.

New York State Senator Betty Little said, "During my years in state government, working with community leaders across multiple counties, I've witnessed the positive changes that take place when organizations work together. Three cheers for increased collaboration among groups such as EDC Warren County and the City of Glens Falls. Creating a more efficient system of serving our current and prospective businesses is a big step in the right direction."

State Assemblyman Dan Stec commented, "I've observed EDC's programs over the years from many vantage points, including as a member of EDC's Board of Directors, as Queensbury Town Supervisor, and as Chair of the Warren County Board of Supervisors. Having a local leader like Ed Bartholomew championing economic development integration in Warren County and the larger region will add new energy and experience to the process of expanding our local economy."

Ed Bartholomew knows Warren County and he knows economic development. As a former colleague in the Senate Counsel's office, I know Ed is the perfect choice to lead EDC," said Heather C. Briccetti, Esq., president and CEO of The Business Council of New York State.

"This is a hallmark example of regional economic development collaboration and my organization looks forward to continuing our pro-business collaboration work with Ed in his new role," remarked Peter Aust, president of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce. "The fact that EDC invited me to serve on its Board in 2012, is evidence of the organization's sincere interest in working with other groups."

From job training programs to financing packages to manufacturing challenges to infrastructure, Ed Bartholomew knows how to work within Warren County. He grew up here, he's served the area in several roles, and he has a strong political and business network," emphasized Kevin Geraghty, Chairman of the Warren County Board of Supervisors.

"Even once he is fully established at EDC, Ed will continue to lead the Glens Falls organizations that he oversees, including the Glens Falls Industrial Development Agency, the Greater Glens Falls Local Development Corporation, and the Adirondack Gateway Council. The flexibility of all parties involved has been the key to making this work; we're all giving a little to achieve greater regional benefit," commented Mayor John "Jack" Diamond.

""Ed Bartholomew is particularly well-qualified to expand the economic development programs of EDC Warren County," stated Bud Taylor, Chair of the County's Economic Development and Growth committee. "He's had hands-on experience here, and knows how to get things done while building community spirit and fostering collaboration."

"Over the past several months, EDC has helped to spearhead a new model for the economic development entities in our region," stated Queensbury Town Supervisor Ron Montesi. "Given the limited public funds available, it's very encouraging to watch multiple groups come together for a shared goal of streamlining economic development programs and processes. It's smart, strategic, and will save money in the long run."

"As we consider some of the opportunities available for Warren County's growth, including the expansion of tourism and recreation and support for small businesses in the less populated parts of the county, I have confidence that Ed Bartholomew knows how to move ahead, not only via local partnerships, but also by leveraging the state's programs and leadership," remarked Ronald Conover, Bolton town supervisor.

In addition to working in his current Glens Falls economic development position since 2010, and serving as the Mayor of Glens Falls from 1978 to 1985, Ed Bartholomew was the Special Counsel for the New York Senate Majority, and formerly served as Legislative Counsel for the New York Department of Motor Vehicles. He also served in various capacities for Senator Ronald Stafford, then Assemblyman Jerry Solomon, and Congressman Carleton J. King. Mr. Bartholomew's practice of law has focused on municipal, school, planning, zoning and real estate matters.

Mr. Bartholomew graduated from Glens Falls High School, and received his Bachelor of Science degree from Union College, and a law degree from Albany Law School. Ed has one daughter, Katie Driscoll (Kevin), and one son, Ed Bartholomew (Tina), and five grandchildren. He is the son of Lillian Bartholomew and the late Ed Bartholomew Sr.

About EDC

EDC is a public-private non-profit partnership focused on driving private-sector business investment in Warren County. Established in 1992, EDC has delivered assistance to businesses responsible for impacting over 5,000 jobs and more than $480 million in new investments across Warren County.

EDC works to deliver solutions to existing and new businesses considering investment in Warren County. EDC offers one-stop solutions for businesses seeking introduction to the county and its resources and for finance, real estate, workforce and development related assistance.

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Media Contact

Charles R. Barton

EDC Chairman

518.615.2038

crbarton@barton.com