BACC executive director participates in economic development course

BELVIDERE – ComEd recently sponsored Tom Lassandro to participate in a state-wide educational course attended by 44 professionals obtaining training in the fundamentals of economic development.

“ComEd is not only a major provider of electric service, but also a strong supporter of economic development throughout Northern Illinois,” said Lassandro.

“Through ComEd’s generosity and support, I came back with a wealth of information and knowledge as a result of my experiences with the distinguished speakers and my interactions with other attendees. What I learned will help enhance our continued efforts in providing Boone County with a quality and diversified business climate.”

The course, Principles and Practice of Economic Development, is fully accredited by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and is the first step toward obtaining Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation.

Held over five days in Naperville, Ill., the course is designed to enhance the effectiveness of professionals who are responsible for the creation of new jobs and the investment and retention of existing businesses in their communities.

“In addition to providing top-performing electric reliability and a competitive energy supply market, ComEd has a strong and proud history of involvement in the communities we serve,” Ed Sitar, manager of economic development, ComEd, who also was a course faculty presenter, said.

“That’s why ComEd provides a number of specialized programs designed to help improve the economic vitality of the communities we serve. Economic development truly requires a partnership effort and by making those that we work with on a regular basis better at what they do, the entire State of Illinois benefits in the long run.”

ComEd provided scholarships for six of the attendees and a representative from the company taught a session on the importance of existing business development.

ComEd has provided economic development related-educational scholarships for this course to more than 100 individuals since 2000.

Attendance at the course was intended to further enhance the professional skills of Lassandro so that jobs and investment can be expanded in Boone County.