Bay County Florida – Reviving the Economic Engine

Bay Countyis located in the heart of Florida’s Great Northwest overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. Along with its world-renowned beaches, Bay County boasts an educated and enthusiastic workforce which creates a wonderful business environment.

Our guest, Janet Watermeier, currently serves as the executive director of the Bay County Economic Development Alliance, Bay County’s public-private partnership for economic development. She has been involved in both private and public economic development at the state and local level for over 15 years.  Her experience includes serving as the economic development director and community redevelopment director for Lee County (Fort Myers area); as the principal owner of an economic development consulting firm; and as vice president of commercial operations for a publicly traded master planned community developer, Westinghouse Communities, Inc. (WCI).

Janet was appointed by Florida’s Governors to serve on Florida’s Transportation Commission, Enterprise Florida, the Regional Planning Council and several statewide task forces. She has served on many local and regional boards including chair of the Southwest Florida International Airport Special Management Committee during its $450 million expansion.

Janet graduated magna cum laude from Virginia’s Old Dominion

University with a degree in economics, received a graduate fellowship and later attended the State University of Buffalo School of Law.