Richmond’s director of economic development and his deputy have been dismissed.
The mayor’s office announced today that the office of community development and the office of economic development will be consolidated. Peter Chapman, whom BizSense profiled here, will oversee the new department.
Carthan Currin, formerly director of economic development, and Dara Glass, his deputy director, have left.
Several sources have said they anticipate more cuts in coming weeks as Chapman puts new people in place.
“The Mayor has asked for a more competent, responsive and technically proficient administration and I believe the changes being put forth will bring about many of the operational efficiencies he is looking for,” said Byron Marhsall, the CAO, in a statement.
One big challenge for the new staff will be to streamline the permit process for businesses and developers. Several previous administrations have failed to reduce the red tape required to open a business in the city.
