The Door County Economic Development Corporation will have to find a new leader sooner than originally planned. Steve Jenkins resigned his position as executive director this past Wednesday, after originally planning to have June 3 be his last day on the job. On Friday, Jenkins confirmed to DoorCountyDailyNews.com that he had resigned on Wednesday but had no comment on why he decided to leave earlier than expected.  The DCEDC Board of Directors accepted Jenkins' resignation on January 17 and thanked him for his significant contributions to the community and strengthening the DCEDC's mission. During his tenure at the DCEDC that began in March of 20220, Jenkins served as a board member for the Bay Area Workforce Development Board, Destination Sturgeon Bay, Destination Door County, and participated in numerous committees and task forces throughout Door County. Jenkins says he is not retiring and still plans to stay and work in Door County.  DCEDC Board Chair Ann Renard released a statement on Friday afternoon that is posted below.

The Door County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC) was founded in 1989 with the goal to improve the economic conditions and quality of life in the County.  Our mission today remains very true to this core as we face different challenges on issues like COVID, housing, childcare, workforce development and broadband. 

To put the organization in the best position to address these issues, DCEDC has worked with Steve Jenkins to expedite the transition to a new Executive Director.  While the search for a new leader is ongoing, the Board of Directors will work closely with the DCEDC staff so we can maintain the momentum on our projects that impact the community.

DCEDC Board President, Ann Renard stated “We thank Steve for his accomplishments and vision he brought to the position, especially during the pandemic.   We will now focus on finding the next Executive Director who can take our primary initiatives to the next level and continue our strong community partnerships.  We are blessed to have talented and dedicated staff and we are excited to work closely with them to help with the transition.”