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Recognizing Ross Currier's 11-year Career with the Department of Planning and Economic Development
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WHEREAS, Ross came to the City of Saint Paul in 2014 from the community development finance institution (CDFI) and banking world where he was primarily focused on working with small businesses and entrepreneurs; and
WHEREAS, Ross brought his passion for working with community, businesses, and entrepreneurs to the City which proved vital to the success of several projects in the City; and
WHEREAS, Ross worked on many highly visible and important projects at the City including but not limited to: the Community Vitality Zones program with a special focus on the Rondo CVZ; the development of Keg and Case; the development of the Palace Theater; ongoing work with the North End Neighborhood Organization (NENO); and dozens of Sales Tax Revitalization (STAR) projects; and
WHEREAS, during the COVID-19 pandemic Ross was one of many economic development team staff who quickly pivoted his role to assist in the efficient disbursement of hundreds of Bridge Fund grants funded through Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act dollars to aid businesses with operations during a stressful and uncertain time; and
WHEREAS, Ross took customer service seriously and demonstrated an exemplary level of attention to his customer by regularly going above and beyond for the small businesses and entrepreneurs he worked with, often times visiting in person to assist with application questions; suggesting internal process and program changes to remove barriers to access; and always being ready and available to assist on a moment’s notice. Ultimately, Ross’s work helped get tens of thousands of dollars in grants and loans to businesses looking to start and grow in the City of Saint Paul; and
WHEREAS, Ross is a proud husband, father, and grandfather who looks forward to spending more time with his family and friends in retirement, taking trips, riding his bike, and getting back into baking; and
WHEREAS, after 11 years with the City of Saint Paul, Ross is bringing his career in public service to a close; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, in recognition and thanks for his 11 years of dedicated service to the City of Saint Paul and its businesses, residents, and partners, the Housing and Redevelopment Authority Board of Commissioners hereby honors Ross Currier on this Seventeenth Day of December.