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2006 Katahdin Region Economic Development Summit |
Michael Bush
Mike presented a 20 year review of economic development efforts in the Mike recalls his first visit to the Katahdin Region and a visit with the Town Manager of Millinocket noting that, "he laughed and sent me home saying that we didn't need any economic development." At the time, the paper mills employed nearly 4500 workers and life couldn't get much better. We are lucky to be blessed with continued high quality of life, but wouldn't it be great to have those jobs back as well. With help from Mike and EMDC, a much healthier and diversified mix of businesses will eventually replace most of the lost mill jobs. |
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Michael is Director of Community Economic Development at Eastern Maine Development Corporation and has been employed with EMDC since 1983. He earned a BA in Economics from the University of Massachusetts and has completed all coursework towards a graduate degree in Community Development from the University of Maine. Michael has worked with community groups to facilitate and implement various community economic development projects, including: downtown, economic development, housing, and business parks. Volunteer activities include: current Chairman of PenQuis CAP, Executive Committee of Maine Rural Partners, United Way Impact Council, and member of the Board on the Four Directions Development Corporation. He is the author of numerous market studies and reports, and a successful fund raiser and project manager. Married to the former Pamela Parady he has two boys and lives in the Town of Mount Desert.
Katahdin region. Mike has personally been involved in economic development efforts during this entire time and our communities have benefited greatly for his efforts.