News

SCEDA Announces Appointment of New Board Member from the Department of Agriculture

Published

2 years ago

October 21, 2022

Press Release

The South Carolina Economic Developers’ Association (SCEDA) announces the appointment of a new member to the Board of Directors. The SCEDA board voted to add an additional seat to the board from the Department of Agriculture. Clint Leach (right), Assistant Commissioner for External Affairs, will fill the seat starting October 20, 2022.

South Carolina agribusiness is one of the state’s largest industry groups. According to a study done in 2020 by economist Dr. Joey Von Nessen, the total economic impact of agribusiness in the Palmetto State is $46.2 billion. The impact corresponds to almost 250,000 jobs and over $9.6 billion in labor income that would not exist otherwise. South Carolina’s agribusiness cluster represents one of the largest industry groups in the Palmetto State and is a primary driver of statewide economic growth.

“I’m honored to welcome Clint to our Board of Directors,” said Mr. Marty Baltzeger, PE, LEED, AP, current SCEDA President. “He will add tremendous value to SCEDA leadership with his extensive background in economic development and dedication to the growth of South Carolina. Clint will be another set of boots on the ground seeking out project opportunities plus has some additional tools to help us close agribusiness projects.”

Adding the South Carolina Department of Agriculture to the SCEDA board will help the association better target the needs of agribusinesses and identify opportunities. Leach says, “I am excited that SCEDA continues to support agribusiness and I look forward to serving with members of the economic development community.”