The Franklin County Commissioners this afternoon announced the appointment of Ruchelle Pride as the interim director of their Economic Development and Planning department (EDP) following the retirement last week of its long-time director. Economic Development and Planning is responsible for providing funding and technical assistance to support community development, and also oversees planning, zoning, land-use, and code enforcement for the unincorporated areas of the county. Ms. Pride first came to work for Franklin County in 2007, and also serves as director of the county’s Justice Policy and Programs agency.
“Director Pride has a proven track record of leadership in managing federal grant programs, permanent and transitional housing projects, and public administration initiatives, which are key parts of the county’s economic development and planning work,” said County Administrator, Kenneth N. Wilson. “She is a nationally recognized leader in public policy and social and economic equity work, and experienced in overseeing large budgets, and we’re fortunate to have her fill in at EDP while we search for the next permanent director.”
Former Economic Development and Planning Director James Schimmer retired last week after 17 years at the helm of the agency, and the commissioners will be launching an extensive search for a permanent replacement. Interim Director Pride will be reporting directly to the County Administrator until the appointment of a permanent leader for the agency. For more information about Franklin County Economic Development and Planning, visit
Development.FranklinCountyOhio.gov.