Explanation
Title
To recognize Mark Barbash, Director of Development, for his seven years of service to the City of Columbus.
Body
WHEREAS, Mayor Michael B. Coleman appointed Mark Barbash to the position of Development Director in February 2000, and Director Barbash has served with distinction and excellence for seven years; and
WHEREAS, Director Barbash managed seven divisions and more than 400 employees and is known for his modern leadership style, inspiring the best from his staff through trust and a shared goal to help make Columbus the very best city in America to live, work and raise a family; and
WHEREAS, Mark maintained an open-door policy throughout his career with the City and was truly accessible, welcoming creative solutions, differing points of view and new ideas; and
WHEREAS, Director Barbash led a wide variety of development projects that brought jobs to our citizens, including the Rickenbacker Joint Economic Development District, the Gowdy Field development, and the Grange Insurance expansion, working with corporations and neighboring governments to bring prosperity to the region; and
WHEREAS, as Development Director, Mark Barbash promoted excellence in city planning, prioritized affordable housing and quality of life for all neighborhoods, and understood the economic benefits of historic preservation and green development; and
WHEREAS, Director Barbash gained the friendship and respect of countless City workers, elected officials, business representatives and community groups, bringing a wonderful sense of humor and a memorable human touch to an institutional environment; and
WHEREAS, Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher has appointed Mark Barbash Chief Economic Development Officer of the Ohio Department of Development, where he
will lead the divisions of economic development, international trade, technology, minority business, urban development, travel & tourism and community development; and
WHEREAS, members of City Council and Mayor Coleman look forward to partnering with Mark to promote job growth, enhance a healthy and prosperous business community, and work toward sustainable economic development opportunities for the citizens of Columbus and Ohio; now therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council wishes Mark Barbash great success as he continues in public service as the newly appointed Chief Economic Development Officer for the State of Ohio.