Thinking anew about strategy, EDAWN seeks consulting help

The fresh look that the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada wants to give to its efforts is likely to take more than a year to begin bearing fruit.

EDAWN last week asked about 30 consulting companies nationwide for proposals to think anew about the strategy to develop new jobs in northern Nevada.

The key question is how to attract industries that provide high-paying jobs while improving the region's quality of life, said Chuck Alvey, president and chief executive officer of EDAWN.

The number of new jobs created in the region's economy has set records for two years.Alvey noted, however, that the pressures of growth dictate a more targeted approach to find companies that benefit the region.

EDAWN officials hope to select a consultant by the end of the year, and they hope that results of the study will be available within 12 to 18 months after the selection.

Cost of the study will be negotiated with the winning consultant.

The completed study will identify current, emerging and potential industries that northern Nevada might target during the next five years.

Alvey said that EDAWN won't turn away inbound companies those that seek out a northern Nevada location even as it targets a select group of industries.