Sealy EDC’s Broker and Manufacturing Day [VIDEO]

On Wednesday, October 16, 2024, the Sealy Economic Development Corporation (EDC), Sealy Chamber of Commerce, and Sealy Workforce Solutions hosted an event aimed at fostering Sealy’s growth by bringing together brokers and manufacturers for a meet-and-greet. Held at the historic Liedertafel Hall, the event focused on showcasing growth opportunities and providing resources for business development in the city.
Mayor Pro Tem Dee Ann Lerma served as the event’s master of ceremonies. The event opened with Mayor Carolyn Bilski reading the official declaration designating October 16, 2024, as Manufacturing Day in Sealy. The first speaker, SEDC Executive Director Bill Atkinson, discussed business attractions and incentives and highlighted a local success story through a video showcasing Hendrix Industries. Austin County Judge Tim Lapam emphasized his office’s role in working with cities to attract industries by offering tax breaks for manufacturing growth. Mike Barrow, Assistant City Manager and Director of Planning for the City of Sealy, outlined the requirements and processes for development in Sealy.

Lynn Spencer of Workforce Solutions provided an overview of the data and resources available to recruit businesses to Sealy and explained how her organization is prepared to assist with staffing for new enterprises. Jay Anderson, Blinn College’s Vice Chancellor of Workforce and Economic Development, spoke about Blinn College’s collaboration with Sealy ISD to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce or higher education. Laura Osborne, CTE Director from Sealy ISD reaffirmed their commitment to helping students transition smoothly from the classroom to the workforce through partnerships with Blinn.
Chelsea Humes, Executive Director of the Greater Sealy Chamber of Commerce, invited businesses to join the Chamber and utilize its resources to help their ventures thrive in Sealy. Cam Yearty of CenterPoint Energy assured developers and brokers that CenterPoint is ready to meet their energy needs and stressed the importance of working closely with the company to ensure adequate power supply, even if it requires additional infrastructure.

In addition to the presentations, participants had the opportunity to network with brokers and manufacturers from across the region. The event provided an excellent platform for gaining insights into Sealy’s expanding economic landscape and navigating the challenges of today’s business environment. Sealy’s economic development organizations demonstrated their commitment to building a prosperous local economy.
If you are interested in more information you can contact the following individuals:
Bill Atkins, Sealy EDC 979-627-6127
Chelsea Humes, Greater Sealy Chamber of Commerce (979) 885-3222
Mike Barrow, ACM/Director of Planning at City of Sealy (979)-627-6118
Lynn Spencer, Workforce Solutions (979) 627-0241
Jay Anderson, Blinn College, Sealy Campus (979) 627-7997
Laura Osborne, Sealy ISD (979)885-3515
Cam Yearty, CenterPoint Energy (713) 207-7865
Dee Ann Lerma, Mayor Pro Tem and Realtor at Travis Able & Associates (979) 885-3524