Fort Bend County Commissioners Court released the following statement on December 14th regarding the future of economic development in the County following recent reports on the proposed closure of the Fort Bend Economic Development Council.

”Fort Bend is one of Texas's fastest-growing counties, with a diverse population projected to exceed one million residents before the end of 2026. In response to this explosive growth, the County identified a need to focus more on diversifying the economy by attracting significant commercial and industrial development.
“Fort Bend County, responding to changing market conditions, created an internal Economic Development and Opportunities Department to have in-house experts to address economic needs and emerging opportunities.
“The County, in partnership with the Fort Bend County Economic Development Council (EDC), engaged a strategic economic development consultant to recommend ways to refocus its economic development efforts. One of the strategic plan’s recommendations is that the EDC change its focus to better serve our County's future economic development needs more effectively.
“The EDC Executive Committee, after reviewing the strategic plan’s recommendations, is pursuing the option to end the EDC’s operations by the end of its fiscal year on June 30, 2024.
“Even if the EDC chooses to close, the County is committed to working with the cities and private sector to keep Fort Bend County moving forward.
“At a time when Fort Bend is embarking on an effort to diversify its economy, the business community must be an active participant. A strong voice from the business community is essential in formulating a plan that will be successful.
“Moving forward, we will pursue an Ad Hoc Committee, equally representing the public and private sectors, to recommend how best to expand our economy.
“The Bottom Line is that Fort Bend County is open for business and working hard to secure more investments in industrial and commercial operations to reduce the tax burden on residential property taxpayers and create well-paying jobs for our residents.”

Judge KP George
Fort Bend County