[Vision2020] B. J. Swanson Named LEDC Executive Director

[Tom Hansen]

A well deserved congratulations to B. J. Swanson, one of Latah County's finest resources.

Courtesy of today's (January 5, 2012) Moscow-Pullman Daily News.

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Swanson named LEDC executive director
By Amelia Veneziano Daily News staff writer
After five months of placing 'interim' before her title, BJ Swanson is the new executive director of the Latah Economic Development Council.
Swanson, who retired from AmericanWest Bank in July, says jobs are her top priority in the role.
That means helping existing businesses throughout Latah County expand, as well as bringing in new ones.
"Quite often, what businesses need is a second set of eyes to help them," Swanson said. "I serve as a central contact for businesses, helping them resolve problems when they do need help."
Swanson worked in banking for 46 years and has been involved with the LEDC since 1988.
She will work 12 hours a week in the position, which necessitates hiring an assistant executive director to work 20 hours per week. The LEDC has received several applications for the position and will make a hiring decision soon. Swanson intends to work two years as executive director, and envisions eventually turning the reins over to the hired individual.
For the board, securing Swanson was a coup.
"We know what BJ's made of. She's got the connections and experience. She goes out and talks to someone, and 'boom boom,' there's a new business in Potlatch," said board member Robin Woods. Woods started a business in the region and had Swanson's assistance in securing an SBA loan, as well as with banking.
"At some council meetings, there's lots of talk and grinding away, but with BJ, she knows what she's talking about and gets stuff done," Woods said. "We're very lucky in Latah County to have her."
For Swanson, it's about going while it's fun. As the chairman of the board at Gritman Medical Center, a volunteer position, and with the LEDC, she's happy to stay involved in the community.
"In two years, if I still have the energy and they still want me, I'll keep going," she said. "I enjoy it, so we'll see what happens."

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Seeya later, Moscow.

Tom Hansen
Spokane, Washington

"If not us, who?
If not now, when?"

- Unknown
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