Ford P. Weber

 City Manager Warren Price has announced the appointment of Ford P. Weber, J.D., as Director of Economic Development for the City of Dayton.  As Director of Economic Development, Ford will plan, organize and implement strategies to promote the growth and development of Dayton’s economic base through retention and expansion of existing businesses and vigorously seeking out new investment.

Ford brings extensive experience and success in brownfield and vacant property redevelopment, asset development and regional collaboration.

Most recently, Ford was President and Chief Executive Officer for the Lucas County Economic Development Corporation in Toledo, Ohio. During his tenure there, he developed a business outreach and assistance program, making over 600 business consultations as part of a $1 billion economic development pipeline.

Previously, he served as Executive Director of Virginia Local Initiatives Support Corporation in Richmond, Virginia. His accomplishments there include generating nearly $14 million in loans and tax credit equities for revitalization projects and securing $2.1 million for redevelopment initiatives.

“As we looked for a leader in economic development, Weber stood out because of his record of retaining, growing and attracting businesses,” said City Manager Warren Price. “Ford will be an asset to our city as we look for new ways to work with businesses, add jobs and grow Dayton for the next generation.”

Since 2010, Dayton’s Office of Economic Development has completed more than 80 development agreements, leveraging $24 in private funds for every public dollar invested, with 6,266 jobs retained and 2,089 pledged.

Weber earned Bachelor of Arts (History) and Juris Doctor degrees at the University of Toledo and a Certification in Economic Development (CEcD) from the International Economic Development Council in 2010.