New director for UEDB

Bri Brasher
NLJ Reporter
 
The Upton Economic Development Board recently hired Stephanie Salazar as executive director, a position newly created in an effort to increase the presence and attention needed to spur economic development in the greater Upton area. John Marshall, president of the board, said Salazar is already working on several projects, including a three-month plan to present to the board. She is also actively communicating with leaders and state officials. 
“I am thrilled to be a part of the UEDB! It is a privilege to work for the Board and serve the community with the innovative and dedicated leaders of the Town of Upton,” said Salazar, in a recent news release from the organization.
The same release described Salazar’s experience and duties: “Salazar will be responsible for attracting new businesses and primary jobs, as well as facilitating local business expansion, and new jobs growth in the Town of Upton. With years of economic development experience in industrial and commercial business growth, Salazar is equipped to provide strategic leadership to the organization.”
“We had a bunch of applicants interview for the position, and we narrowed it down to her,” Marshall said. “She’s already had a tremendous impact in the first few weeks she’s been here.”
With 10-plus years in the economic development field and more than eight years as a certified economic developer, Salazar’s previous roles have included CEO/president, executive director, economic development consultant, and director of economic development. Salazar said, however, that her role has consistently been to promote business development and jobs growth. Additionally, Salazar has a background in real estate development, financial services, and municipal government. After spending most of her time in Colorado and South Dakota, Salazar explained why she is attracted to Upton. 
“The location and resources of Upton are truly unique. Upton has a great location to attract recreation and employment. Recreation is readily accessible with the Town’s proximity to Devils Tower, Keyhole State Park, the Black Hills, and Thunder Basin Grasslands.  Upton is central to Newcastle, the Weston County seat, Sundance and Gillette,” said Salazar in the news release, adding that the town’s exceptional multimodal transportation increases its appeal. “The opportunities to help facilitate business and jobs growth are amazing and are what will keep me in Upton.”
Marshall said the paid position was created to supplement the board’s volunteerism, though Salazar will still report to the board, and they will work closely together. He said the board needs boots on the ground and a primary point of contact to make things happen. Marshall explained that the board is currently focused on expanding broadband in the greater Upton area and Weston County by working with the state and RT Communications. He said there are state and federal funds available. A presentation will be made to the Weston County commissioners next month, according to Marshall. Additionally, Marshall said, Salazar will help identify some target industries that could be good fits for the logistics park. 
“If people have ideas for business or want help with their existing businesses, she’s definitely going to be a resource you can reach out to,” Marshall said. 
Salazar shared her input on kickstarting economic development in Upton, narrowing it down to two initial areas of focus. She said outreach to Upton area business is important to learn business owners’ concerns and the needs and opportunities where the development group may be of service. Salazar also said that she will focus on responding to inquiries from business prospects to make it attractive to them to locate or expand in Upton. 
“The Board is very excited to welcome Stephanie to our team at UEDB,” said the board in its announcement of her hiring. “We are confident that she will be able to focus our efforts on developing businesses and new jobs in order to promote, develop, and support a strong Greater Upton Community.”