The Jacksonville Economic Development Commission (JEDC) today honored Bob Rhodes, the organization's current chair, with a resolution commending him and recognizing the contributions he has made during his tenure on the board. Rhodes served on the board from August 2005 and as the chair from March 2007 to December 2008. Currently a partner at Foley and Lardner, LLP, Rhodes is resigning from the board to accept an invitation to serve as Practitioner in Residence at the Georgia State College of Law in Atlanta, Ga.

During Rhodes' tenure on the board as chairman, the JEDC approved more than 22 projects resulting in the creation of more than 2,000 jobs with more than $535 million in new private capital investment and expanded opportunities for small business. Rhodes was especially instrumental in the implementation of the Downtown Master Plan through the completion of projects meeting the vision of the Plan, including the Main Street Park and streetscape project. In 2007, Rhodes received the Thomas Klechak Downtown Development Award for his significant impact on continued development in downtown Jacksonville.

It was also under Rhodes' leadership that the JEDC helped to attract the first major aviation manufacturing project to Cecil Commerce Center (Alenia North America) and helped facilitate the development of a Request for Proposals for a Master Developer for Cecil that will result in long-term community benefits.

'Bob Rhodes has been an outstanding leader on the JEDC and in this city,' said Mayor John Peyton. 'He has generously shared his intellect and expertise with the community through his important work in economic development and as chair of my Growth Management Task Force, and the foundation he has helped to build in both areas will benefit the people of Jacksonville for many years to come.'

Commissioner Zimmerman Boulos was named chairman by Mayor Peyton until a successor can be appointed.