For the past five years Bud Prince has played a vital role in leading Redmond through an unprecedented period of growth and development, and now he is ready to pass the baton. To facilitate a smooth transition for EDCO and the Redmond community and allow time for a comprehensive search for his replacement, he will continue his duties through the first part of August. Lured out of semi-retirement from a 24-year career with PacifiCorp, Bud says he’s ready for a second retirement to spend more time with family and enjoying all Central Oregon has to offer.
His accomplishments, since taking over a troubled economic development effort in Redmond in May 2003, are significant. During his tenure T-Mobile launched its operations, and became the community’s largest private employer and sixth largest in the region. Bud played a key role in recruiting numerous companies to Redmond including Altrec (GreatOutdoors.com), MPress Packaging, Beau Nouveau, XL Management, Ameritech Machine, and TYM USA among others.
Perhaps more importantly, he forged deep relationships with local manufacturing and technology companies – helping them expand, increase productivity, and move smoothly through the development process. The list of local companies Bud helped is long and includes: PCC Schlosser, H.D. Fowler, Ferguson Industries, Chase Industries, Suburban Door, High Desert Glass, Truline Steel, Dana Signs, Riverman Boat Works, Picturesque Window Mfg., Rocky Mt. Products, Industrial Concepts, and Aircraft Rubber.
Redmond Economic Development, Inc. (REDI) has flourished under Bud’s leadership and implementation. When the partnership with EDCO was forged five years ago, the organization literally had $25 in its bank account. With the success of the program, support has grown from the business community and has been sustained by the City of Redmond – resulting in a healthy reserve account to fund future efforts. From 2003 to 2007, under Bud’s leadership, Redmond Economic Development helped facilitate the creation of over 1,100 new jobs; surpassing a 5-year goal of 750 jobs. Collectively, the projects accounted for over one million square feet added and $100M total capital investment.
The City of Redmond gives high marks to Prince’s relationship building skills, effectiveness and negotiation skills that often led to an agreement where all parties win. “I could not envision a better fit for Redmond these past five years, nor a finer individual to have on our team than Bud,” said Roger Lee, EDCO Executive Director.
“Bud truly sets the standard for what we’re seeking in a local economic development manager,” said Jean Wood, City of Redmond appointee to the EDCO board and past president. “I most admire Bud’s sensitivity to the various positions represented by businesses and the city – as well as his diplomacy -- all while driving to a successful recruitment or expansion.”
“Bud Prince is truly going to be missed by all of us here at the Redmond Chamber of Commerce & CVB,” said Eric Sande, Executive Director. “His enthusiasm, charm, and positive attitude have been a daily inspiration.” REDI has shared space through a sublease with the Chamber since 1988.
About Economic Development for Central Oregon
Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO) is a private non-profit corporation founded 26 years ago and dedicated to building a vibrant and thriving regional economy by attracting new investment and traded-sector jobs (manufacturing, professional, headquarters and high technology businesses) through marketing, recruitment and substantive assistance to existing companies. Learn more about EDCO at www.edcoinfo.com.
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Press Contact
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Roger Lee
Executive Director
Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO)
541.388.3236
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