Economic Development Authority

Overview

This board was created as a political sub-division of the State of Virginia and has authority to acquire, own, lease, and dispose of properties to promote industry and develop trade by inducing manufacturing, industrial, governmental and commercial enterprises and institutions of higher education to locate or remain in Gloucester.

Throughout the United States, Economic / Industrial Development Authorities assist new and expanding businesses in securing tax-exempt industrial development revenue bonds. These bonds provide as much as 100% financing at interest rates that are much lower than those available from other sources. 

For the past 15 years, federal regulations have restricted the use of these bonds to financing of manufacturing facilities. Bonds are issued when financing these facilities, covering the cost of land, buildings, machinery or equipment. A mortgage or lien on the financed property is then secured and repaid from the revenue of the project.

Meetings

  • 8:30 a.m.
  • Quarterly Meetings 
  • Olivia's in the Village
  • 6597 Main Street
    Gloucester, VA 23061

Member Details

Seven members are appointed for a four-year term. These directors, appointed by the Gloucester County Board of Supervisors, govern the Economic Development Authority of Gloucester County, created in 1971. It is authorized to acquire, own, lease and dispose of local properties that will potentially promote industry and develop trade in Virginia.  Members can be contacted through the Economic Development Department at 804-693-1415.  

NamePosition/ContactTerm Expiration
Stephen Barrs, Immediate past Chair
County-Wide12/31/2024
Alistair (Al) Ramsay, ChairCounty-Wide12/31/2022
Christian "Buddy" Rilee, Vice ChairCounty-Wide12/31/2024
Greg EarwoodCounty-Wide12/31/2025
Earl "Mac" HoutzCounty-Wide12/31/2022
David N. Meeker, SecretaryCounty-Wide12/31/2023
Evan VanLeeuwen, Immediate past Chair, TreasurerCounty-Wide12/31/2025
Robert J. "JJ" OrthBOS Representative
Email Robert Orth
804-693-4762
12/31/2022
Sherry SpringStaff, Assistant Secretary
Email Sherry Spring
804-693-1415
N/A
Amanda RidingsStaff, Clerk
Email Amanda Ridings
804-693-1415
N/A

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Minutes are available following approval.

View Most Recent Agendas and Minutes

More Information

Contact the Economic Development Office at 804-693-1415 for more information.