Economic Development Corporation
The Hamilton Economic Development Corporation (HEDC) is a nonprofit Type B economic development corporation created under the Texas Development Corporation Act. HEDC works in partnership with the City of Hamilton to promote projects that expand the local tax base, support quality jobs, and enhance the community's long-term vitality.
Purpose of the Corporation
HEDC’s purpose is to promote economic development that benefits the City of Hamilton, including industrial, manufacturing, commercial, retail, parks, and residential development. The Corporation supports employment opportunities and community quality of life within the City and its extraterritorial jurisdiction, consistent with the Texas Development Corporation Act and the HEDC Bylaws.
Role of the Board
The Board of Directors manages the affairs of the Hamilton Economic Development Corporation. In partnership with the City of Hamilton, the Board:
- Identifies and evaluates projects that encourage private investment, job creation, and community development.
- Recommends economic development programs, incentive agreements, and other projects to the Hamilton City Council for consideration.
- Oversees the Corporation’s policies, programs, and use of funds in accordance with state law and the HEDC Bylaws.
- Adopts an annual corporate budget for review and approval by the Hamilton City Council.
- Ensures that the Corporation operates transparently and in compliance with the Texas Open Meetings Act and the Texas Public Information Act.
The Board’s role is to manage the Corporation and make recommendations to the City Council. Final authority for City ordinances, City budgets, and other municipal actions remains with the Hamilton City Council under state law and the City’s governing documents.
Board Membership
The HEDC Board of Directors is composed of seven (7) volunteer members appointed by the Hamilton City Council for staggered two-year terms. At least three directors must not be members of the City Council or City employees. No more than four directors may be members of the City Council. All directors must reside within Hamilton County, Texas, as required by the HEDC Bylaws.
Current Board of Directors:
- Riley Gardner – President
- Justin Fraiser – Vice President
- Mandy Blackwell – Treasurer
- Richard Buchanan – Secretary
- Terry Baize
- Luke Downs
- Mary Owen
Board membership may be updated from time to time as appointments change.
Meetings & Public Participation
HEDC Board meetings are conducted in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act. Agendas are posted in accordance with law and City policy, and meetings are open to the public.
Residents, business owners, and interested stakeholders are encouraged to attend meetings and may be provided an opportunity to address the Board during designated public comment periods.
Meeting dates, times, and agendas are typically available through the City’s Agendas & Minutes section or the Hamilton EDC page on this website.
Public Records
As a governmental body under the Texas Public Information Act, HEDC maintains its records in accordance with state law. Most records of the Corporation are available to the public upon request, subject to applicable exceptions under Texas law.
Contact
For questions about the Hamilton Economic Development Corporation Board or upcoming agenda items, please contact:
Hamilton Economic Development Corporation
200 E Main Street
Hamilton, Texas 76531
Email: edc@cityhamiltontx.gov
Phone: (254) 386-8116, option 9
Staff can help route questions, accept written comments for the Board, and provide information about meeting schedules and current projects.