Wood County Economic Development Commission (WCEDC) heard from special guests David Dodd and Jay Moon at last Wednesday’s meeting.

DADCO Consulting is an economic consulting firm with 30 years experience in reinforcing and advancing communities. They tailor their methods for each case whether as concentrated as an individual business or as widespread as a disaster-effected region. DACO looks at each situation not only informing the financial sector but management processes and planning.

“We are all seasoned at DACO,” Dodd said. “We like to come to places like Wood County that we know and feel like have a lot of potential and that is exactly what we feel like here. We have been talking about things that have an economic impact of Wood County and some things y’all can really take advantage of. We know now people can work from anywhere even at home. The way to create wealth is to create something of value and export that thing of value and import dollars.

“Infrastructure has a direct impact on everything. What is your infrastructure. That does include new communications infrastructure. If you are refining crude oil or making computer chips, you are going to be dependent on infrastructure,” Dodd added. “Broadband is just something you have to have. We are not only going to tell you what you need but here is how you can find resources you need.”

Executive Director Christine Thomas reported the Official Best of America designated Wood County as the “Best Weekend Road Trip Destination” and showed a four-minute infomercial which will be to featured in the Dallas Market on Aug. 4.

She reported the DADCO contract was reviewed and approved by commissioners and signed by County Judge Kevin White July 26. Initial planning has been done and appointments have been scheduled.

The Hotel Occupancy Tax grant committee was scheduled to meet July 31 to approve grants from over 30 applicants

Former WCEDC board member Lee Smith spoke about the Wood County Economic Development Group. WDEDC members on the committee include Judge White, Tom Keenan, Jim Berry, Steven Steele and Craig Lindholm.

“This group’s existence is to work side by side with the WDEDC,” Smith said. “We want to find ways to attract businesses. This is for businesses or entities that are interested in what happens in Wood County and will pay annual dues and be a member of the economic group. The focus is to get tax exempt status. It is not a charity in the sense of a taxable donation; it more closely resembles a business association like a chamber of commerce for example.”

Dues will fund the organization’s programs to promote economic growth with businesses located in or looking to relocate to Wood County. The group’s services are free to any business in Wood County or those looking to relocate here.

The next WCEDC meeting is Aug. 23 at a site to be determined.