2016-17 Annual Report

RIVERSIDE COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AGENCY HISTORY & OVERVIEW

From its inception, the Riverside County Economic Development Agency (EDA) has been merging, transforming and adapting to changes in the County government landscape. EDA was created under Board action on November 7, 1989, which consolidated the Economic and Community Development Department (ECD) and the Redevelopment Agency (RDA) and County Airports. In 1997, the Private Industry Council/Job Training department was added to EDA. This was the first in a series of “troubled” departments that EDA turned around, correcting financial and administrative problems and creating soundly managed programs. In 1996, the Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival came under EDA and 1997 brought in the County Airports. Both the Fair and the Airports were financially challenged with deteriorating facilities and under EDA’s direction, they have become self-supporting with greatly improved facilities. In 1999 and 2000, the Edward-Dean Museum& Gardens and the Riverside County Housing Authority joined EDA. County Service Areas or Community Services Division came on board in 2002. In 2009, EDAmerged with Riverside County Facilities Management to become one of the most robust and reputable departments in the County. Robert Field was appointed to the position of Assistant County Executive Officer/EDA for the Agency. EDA has had a history of change, but also of growth and welcomed additions. In 1989, EDA started with a staff of less than 20 employees. EDA now manages over 730 staff. EDA’s budget has grown from hundreds of thousands to hundreds of millions. EDA continually strives to create communities where all residents have access to quality housing in neighborhoods that are attractive, functional and safe; support a broad spectrum of business growth and ensure companies have ongoing access to an ample and globally competitive workforce; and provide our residents with the recreational and cultural activities that enrich their lives. The mantra of Riverside County’s very first Board of Supervisors, in 1893, was “the business of the County is business, not politics.” The work and dedication of EDA staff reflects this noble declaration.

20 Employees in 1989

EDA Employees today Over 730

22

Divisions under EDA umbrella

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