JoAnn Sumner

Culminating a process which has been under way for nearly two years, the County of Howard finally has hired a director of economic development.

Named to the position is JoAnn Sumner who comes here with extensive experience in economic development, having spent five years as executive director of the Fort Leonard Wood Regional Commerce & Growth Association.

She also has served as an economic developer for a variety of other organizations.

Sumner signed a contract Tuesday with the Howard County Economic Development Council to serve in the county-wide position. The HCEDC is the group which will oversee the operation of the office.

Making the announcement is council board President Richard Fowler, general manager of Howard Electric Co-op. “We’re proud to have her,” he said.

Sumner will begin work June 9, with her office to be located in the Keller Building.

The position has been made possible by a joint partnership involving 17 local entities. Investors are: Central Methodist University, City of Fayette, City of Glasgow, City of New Franklin, Commercial Trust Co., Exchange Bank of Missouri, the Fayette Area Chamber of Commerce, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, Glasgow Development Corp., Howard County, Ho. Co. 911 Board, Howard County Home Health, Howard Electric Cooperative, Isle of Capri, Merchants & Farmers Bank, Mid Missouri Regional Planning Commission, and Tri-County Trust Company.

Sumner plans to reside in Howard County and said she is looking forward to working with Howard County businesses.

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