New Community & Economic Development Officer

New Community & Economic Development Officer
Posted on 04/13/2018

Lane County has selected Austin Ramirez to serve as the new Community & Economic Development Officer devoted to supporting rural Lane County communities and the County-led Rural Prosperity Initiative. Ramirez came onboard March 12, 2018.

 

“Austin will make a great addition to our organization,” said Community & Economic Development Manager Sarah Means. “The success of our rural communities is vital to creating a vibrant and healthy Lane County. Austin will be focused on our Rural Prosperity Initiative and helping ensure their economic efforts receive the attention they deserve.”

 

Ramirez will work closely with rural Lane County communities to identify and support the unique economic development priorities of each area. He will work to promote partnerships, leverage resources from a variety of agencies and help make connections that further community goals.

 

“I am excited to join Lane County and get to know each of its rural communities,” said Ramirez. “I look forward to advocating for and assisting Lane County businesses and community members from coastal communities like Mapleton to the incredible McKenzie River corridor and everything in between.”

 

Ramirez graduated cum laude from California State University, San Bernardino with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in human resource management. He is bilingual in English and Spanish. Prior to joining Lane County, he most recently served as a management analyst with the City of Claremont’s Community Development Department and has focused professionally on supporting the advancement of small communities. Ramirez obtained his master’s degree in public administration from the University of La Verne in California before relocating to Lane County.