New economic director is gung-ho for Edmonds

EDMONDS – Jennifer Gerend may be small in physical stature, but she’s standing tall in her job.

The new economic development director for Edmonds stands 5 feet tall. But her size seems inversely proportional to her effect on efforts to bring more retail business to the city.

“She’s very energetic, and she has a passion for the job,” said Chris Guitton, director of the Greater Edmonds Chamber of Commerce.

City officials and businesspeople have long expressed frustration with the city’s inability to increase its sales tax base, and in turn keep property taxes down, and maintain city services. Gerend’s position was created this year at the suggestion of Mayor Gary Haakenson, and the city shifted funds to come up with most of Gerend’s $91,445 annual salary. The Port of Edmonds also made a contribution. The position was advertised nationally, and Gerend beat out 40 other candidates.

Gerend, who grew up in Sammamish and graduated from Issaquah High School, spent the past four years in charge of a program that revitalized a Brooklyn, N.Y., neighborhood. Her approach includes keeping an eye out for companies that are looking to expand and matching them with available retail space and vacant commercial land.

With a master’s degree in urban planning from New York University, Gerend said she understands city regulations and their effect on business.

“I feel like I can appreciate both sides,” she said.

Guitton said Gerend, who started June 14, wasted no time in asking him for lists of commercial property owners, vacant business property and leasing rates. She’s also made sure she’s on the same page with Team Edmonds, a group of Chamber businesses developing a joint marketing strategy.

“I see real skills in business recruitment and retail business,” Guitton said of Gerend.

Gerend, 28, said she enjoys the small-town flavor of Edmonds and the working atmosphere.

“It’s nice to see the local government and the Chamber and the businesses working together,” she said.