Economic Development director outlines FY2027 priorities, cites small-business lending and targeted recruitment

Brenda Hex, director of Economic Development, presented an updated strategic framework and the department
s proposed FY2027 budget (presented in-session as $16.9 million). Hex described goals to boost competitiveness, attract industry and expand workforce training while continuing partnerships with regional organizations such as Greater SAT, Supply SA and Launch SA.

Hex highlighted loan and incentive programs that support small-business growth, including a referenced low-interest lending program and a multi-year record of loan facilitation since 2016. She also cited major prospective industrial projects and said the department is targeting sites for capital and workforce investments. Council members asked for outcome metrics and for details showing how incentives and loan dollars will be allocated across communities; staff said they would provide follow-up reports and a master plan for site identification.