Natural and man-made disasters have devastating impacts on local communities. In response to the increase in disasters, the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) has developed a program of disaster preparedness and post-disaster economic recovery directed at economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, local businesses, and other economic recovery stakeholders.

Salt Lake City’s Department of Economic Development (SLC DED) Director, Lara Fritts, will serve as an economic recovery volunteer in Florida May 14 – 18, 2018.

“As an economic developer for over 20 years and a member of the IEDC board, I was compelled to serve and participate in this opportunity,” says Fritts. “I believe it is imperative for economic developers to not only build vital economies and quality of life in their local neighborhoods, but also use their knowledge to impact their colleagues and communities across the country.”

IEDC is collaborating with Monroe County, Florida, to survey small businesses impacted by Hurricane Irma. Fritts is among eight economic developers dispatched to work in teams to meet face-to-face with business owners or managers throughout the Florida Keys to assess their post-disaster needs.

“Director Fritts and her team are no strangers to business surveys and the importance data-driven decision-making,” says Mayor Jackie Biskupski. “I am proud that Salt Lake City has professionals with the right experience and expertise to be called on in times of need. I know Lara’s efforts in Florida will be instrumental in their recovery efforts, and know our City will also benefit from the best practices in Monroe County.”

Costs for this program are funded by IEDC and the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). Findings from this work will inform a report to the Economic Development Administration for future assistance.

About Salt Lake City Department of Economic Development: Formed in 2016, under the leadership of Mayor Jackie Biskupski, Salt Lake City’s Department of Economic Development is focused on building Salt Lake City as a vibrant, beautiful, prosperous, diverse, and authentic place – a place that is economically accessible to everyone. Known as the “Crossroads of the West,” Salt Lake City is strategically located for businesses to succeed. SLCDED works to streamline processes, provide excellent customer service, and offer an array of resources and services to recruit and retain businesses in the City, and ensure they have the tools to thrive.