Ann Arbor Spark Takes Over Business Attraction In Livingston County

ANN ARBOR -- Ann Arbor Spark, the public-private economic development agency for Washtenaw County, announced Wednesday that it has been asked by the Economic Development Council of Livingston County to make a proposal to assume management of its business attraction efforts.

Under this new collaboration, Ann Arbor Spark would include Livingston in its efforts to support business growth and expansion in the region.

"A core value in creating Ann Arbor Spark six years ago was open source economic development and regional collaboration," said Paul Krutko, Ann Arbor Spark president and CEO. "Given that global competition is between economic regions, not government subdivisions, the proposed partnership with Livingston County would be an important opportunity to position the Ann Arbor region more competitively. Ann Arbor Spark has a successful track record in fostering regional collaboration and leading statewide programs -- partnering with Livingston County to advance the interests of our region is a logical step."

The Economic Development Council of Livingston County, pending sufficient funding commitments from its public and private stakeholders, tentatively approved Ann Arbor Spark's proposal for a three-year agreement.  The final agreement between the organizations would require approval from Ann Arbor Spark's executive committee.

"By working with Ann Arbor Spark, the Economic Development Council of Livingston County is uniquely positioned to review and improve the way it provides services," said Michael Kennedy, Economic Development Council of Livingston County board chair. "Ann Arbor Spark's efforts are a catalyst for our region's continued growth, providing an exciting opportunity to build on the solid, established business base here in Livingston."

More at www.annarborusa.org or www.livingstonedc.com.