ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (Oct. 2, 2018)- The Greater St. Petersburg Area Economic Development Corporation (EDC) partnered with the City of St. Petersburg, Pinellas County Economic Development, RE/MAX Metro, and Pilot Bank to host the 'Southern Pinellas Top Projects and Financing Forum.
President of the Greater St. Petersburg Economic Development Corporation, J.P. DuBuque welcomed attendees and introduced Mayor Rick Kriseman.
The luncheon, held at John's Hopkins All Children's Education & Conference Center, featured development and financing information related to projects in Pinellas County.
Following St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman's opening remarks, Sophia Sorolis, Economic Development Manager for the City of St. Petersburg, highlighted major projects underway in the City including the Tropicana Field site redevelopment and Jabil's $67M expansion, UPC Insurance's proposal, and the development of the Innovation District and Skyway Marina District.
"Earlier this year, Jabil announced its intention to construct a new worldwide headquarters in St. Petersburg, a $67.3 million that will create 300 new full-time jobs," Sorolis said.
Mike Meidel, Director of Pinellas County Economic Development highlighted major retail, office, hotel, residential, and land developments throughout the county including the Raymond James expansion that will bring 650 new jobs, and the 20.5-acre Echelon City Center mixed-use project.
"There has been a significant interest in developing in Pinellas's 16 identified opportunity zones," Meidel said. "
The new federal tax program serves to incentivize investment in distressed communities by allowing the re-investment of assets, otherwise subject to a taxable gain.
An interactive Q&A between presenters and attendees concluded the luncheon.
Remaining event proceeds of nearly $900 were donated to All Children's hospital.