Cove EDC executive director resigns Posted On: Thursday, Oct. 29 2009 07:37 AM By Alicia Lacy
The Cove Herald

The Copperas Cove Economic Development Corp. will move forward as planned on current projects following the abrupt resignation of its executive director.

Friday afternoon, Jerry Conner, executive director of the Copperas Cove EDC, submitted his resignation to the corporation's board of directors, which they accepted.

The Copperas Cove EDC is in the middle of negotiations for several upcoming projects.

The EDC will continue working on those projects with Conner providing "transitional consultation services" to ensure the projects move forward, a release from the EDC stated Friday.

Copperas Cove EDC Marketing Director Monica Hull said Conner's notice was sudden and unexpected, but the staff and board of directors are working together to make certain that business will continue to run smoothly.

Board of Director's chairman, Dan Yancey, said the EDC will begin the process to find a new executive director, though Conner's resignation won't take effect until Jan. 31.

"The CCEDC board has the final authority to approve projects, and, as a community, we're very fortunate that they have a hands-on approach," Yancey said.

Yancey said the board of directors will handle business until a new executive director is hired.

Conner has been with the Copperas Cove EDC for three and a half years.

During his tenure, he has played a role in bringing the Discount Tire store and Walgreens to the city, and selling the speculative building that is now Cinergy Cinemas. Conner was also part of ongoing projects that include the Fort Hood land exchange, Shops at Five Hills, Stoney Brook assisted living center and two new multiunit living complexes.

"The board appreciates the work that Mr. Conner has done for the Copperas Cove Economic Development Corporation during his tenure," the EDC said in a release.

Contact Alicia Lacy at alacy@kdhnews.com or (254) 501-7476.