Worcester County Commissioners have appointed Merry Mears Director of Economic Development. Mears has served as the Deputy Director of Worcester County Economic Development (WCED) since 2012.

From the WCED electronic newsletter,

In addition to her experience with WCED, Mears brings extensive experience in economic and workforce development, including a leadership position as director of the Workforce Development Division of the Tri-County Council for the Lower Eastern Shore. There, she oversaw the implementation of regional Workforce Investment Act funded programs. In addition to serving on the Board of Directors for Maryland Capital Enterprises and the Delmarva Water Transport Committee, Mears is an active member of the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) and is currently completing the Certified Economic Developer program through the International Economic Development Council.

“I’m honored to serve in this capacity, and to continue working with the County Commissioners to attract and retain businesses while facilitating a pro-business climate, innovation, and job growth in our community,” said Mears. When asked what economic development priorities will be focused on under her leadership, Mears commented that “fundamentally, workforce and infrastructure development are key; a renewed concentration on this will aid in the attraction of larger companies, providing above average wage jobs and increasing the revenue base.” Mears also says she looks forward to continuing several projects the department has been working on over the last few years, specifically the excursion train opportunity and the multi-purpose sports arena facility study.