First quarter - 2012 QuEconomarterlyic Development

An official publication of the Volusia County Economic Development Division

Cover story - Volusia County Community Leader of the Year - Page 6

County advisory committee to market Major study seeks big picture analysis Area builders hopeful for 2012 – area –Page 4 of tourism marketing–Page 8 Page 10 An official publication of the Volusia County Economic Development Division — First quarter 2012  Robust cultural environment cited in

Welcome to Economic Development arts economic impact report Quarterly, a publication brought to you by the Volusia County Economic Development A report on the economic impact of the arts in Volusia County million invested by arts organizations in education or Division. This publication is produced for is getting new legs after its initial release four years ago. In the cur- more than $60 million invested in facilities and people who have an interest in the area’s rent challenging economic environment, arts groups are citing the improvements creating places where people can meet business, economic development and real estate market. report’s findings as they make their case for funding from a variety and enjoy the arts. Our goal is to use this publication as an of sources including governments, foundations, communi- The report cited overall community reinvestment economic development tool, to keep you ty groups, businesses and individual benefactors. In through personnel expenses, program expenses, capital informed and to provide information and sta- addition to the statistical summary of eco- expenditures, advertising and marketing, and educational tistics that have meaning to your business. nomic impact of the arts, the outreach programs totaling more than $83 million. It noted This publication is owned by Volusia County Government and is produced and sold by the report sheds some light on the that volunteers log 125,000 hours annually in support of arts Volusia/Flagler Business Report through con- uplifting effect of the arts on cities. organizations. And it cited admissions to arts and cultural facil- tract. Content is solely the responsibility of “A cross America, cities that once ities and events at more than 433,000. Further, it notes that arts the Volusia County Economic Development Astruggled economically are reinventing organizations serve more than 1.8 million people, more than Division. and rebuilding themselves by investing in three times the population of Volusia County. We’re interested in your comments and story ideas. Please contact David Byron, art and culture, a catalyst for eco- The applicability of these and other statis- community information director, at 386-822- nomic growth,” said New tics are borne out by various organizations. 5062, or e-mail [email protected]. If Yo rk Congresswoman The Travel Industry Association of you’d like to become an advertiser, please Louise M. Slaughter, who is America states that cultural tourists out- contact Lois Duncan at the Volusia/Flagler quoted in the brochure. “By spend other visitors by nearly 45 percent, are avid shop- Business Report at 386-681-2500. Economic Development Quarterly is produced creating cultural hubs, nonprofit arts businesses help cities pers and pursue educational activities. The National Endowment and mailed quarterly to a minimum of 10,000 define themselves, draw tourists and attract investment.” for the Arts reports that people who participate in the arts also area businesses by the Volusia County Congresswoman Slaughter is co-chair of engage in positive civic and indi- Economic Development Division. It is offered the Congressional Arts Caucus. vidual activities, such as volun- free to readers, including real estate profes- The Arts & Economic Prosperity teering, at higher rates than non- sionals, leaders of business, industry, educa- Report recently was re-circulated to mem- participants. The National tion, government and selected organizations. bers of the Halifax Area Advertising Governors Association notes that If you are interested in receiving this publica- Authority by Gary Libby. Libby, a lifelong diverse arts education programs tion, please contact the Volusia/Flagler champion of the arts and culture and for- are valuable options for states Business Report at 386-681-2500. mer chairman of the county’s ECHO seeking to develop advanced Advertising board, also is a former board member of workforce skills. The Journal of Volusia/Flagler Business Report HAAA and often briefs this and other Arts Management, Law & 386-681-2500 organizations on cultural matters, especial- Society reports that arts districts Publisher ly those that impact tourism in the region. attract visitors and help improve Volusia County Council/ The organi- a city’s image, increase commer- Economic Development Division zation that cial activity and stop physical decline while helping to stabilize 800-554-3801 bears his property values. 386-822-5062 name, the Volusia County has been a leader in recognizing the value floridabusiness.org Gary R. of the arts. The voter-approved ECHO program, which pro- Libby vides infrastructure funding for environmental, cultural, her- Charitable itage and outdoor resources, is seen by many as a model for Trust, broad-based support. And the county’s Arts In Public Places worked with program ensures that new construction funded by or through Volusia Volusia County Government, sets aside up to .5 percent of the County cost of construction for the procurement and display of artwork Government in each funded facility. Cities, too, are investing in artwork to to conduct enhance their cities with sculptures at city halls, spectacular the study of the economic impact of the outdoor murals and environmen- nonprofit arts and cultural organizations in tal artwork situated in downtown Volusia County. areas. The Libby Trust was created to sup- Leading economists say that port the growth and development of the developing a community’s cre- arts in Volusia County through direct ative ethos helps to produce sus- financial support of projects and programs. tainable patterns of development. It worked with the Volusia County Researchers maintain that a Volusia County Council Cultural Council, the designated local arts vibrant cultural landscape can agency for Volusia County Government, to enhance learning, lure travelers, Pictured, left to right, back row: Patricia compile the report. uplift urban centers and attract a Northey, District 5, and Andy Kelly, District 1. “A s employers and consumers, arts professional workforce. As an Front row: Joshua J. Wagner, District 2; Joie organizations infuse the local economy industry, arts and culture are Alexander, District 3; Frank T. Bruno, Volusia with dollars from clean, creative industry,” Libby said. “Spending on growing nationally. In Volusia County nonprofit arts are contribut- County chair; Joyce M. Cusack, vice chair, at salaries, marketing, artist fees, operations and more can approach ing to the vitality of the region in qualitative and quantitative ways. large, and Carl G. Persis, District 4. $20 million.” He added this does not take into account more than $2 ■

An official publication of the Volusia County Economic Development Division — First quarter 2012  Economic Development 101: The times they are a-changin’

Around 1974 - 1975, AmericaAmerica wawass at thethe A universal assumption five years ago parents, and children who cannot afford to create innovative ways to invest in (re)train- endend of a gogovevernment-ordered wage frfreeezeze and earlier was the concept that American live on their own. Cash strapped seniors ing, and new infrastructure, such as public (197(1972-192-197744)).. The Vietnam War was ending workers typically had the ability to be may need to work longer. Those older transit and development of an aerotropolis, skilled workers who took early retirement unfavorably for the U.U.S.S. in 1973. ThThee Arab mobile… to move from one geographic area will open doors for new jobs and technolo- oil embembargo bebeggaann in October 1973 anandd to another… from one don’t want to, or can’t move to fill a posi- gy to create and sustain a thriving commu- changed perceptions about energy rrisk,isk, aass state or city to anoth- tion. Their home, once their perceived nity. long lines foformrmeded at gagasolinesoline stations. WaWaggee er… to fill an open retirement equity, is worth less than the controls ended and President Nixon employment position. mortgage… if they could sell it. We’ll need to keep our young profes- resigned in 1974. The S&P and Dow were What helped in Mobility suddenly costs more – at the sionals and create an environment for them Adown significantly and in a blue funk. The previous years was the pump, in lost time, and in higher tolls. to grow, start families, and stay in the com- energy crisis and the overzealous lending of fact that one likely Public sector shortfalls curtail spend- munities where they went to school. real estate investment trusts created a could sell their home ing on repairing or rebuilding existing Instead of looking for greener pastures else- severe real estate crisis in 1974 and 1975. for more than they paid By Phil Ehlinger, transportation structure. The once-vaunted Director where, it is time to focus on our own The economy slowly adjusted and for it and/or a new interstate highways are outmoded and Volusia County growth through education, training and recovered. But between 1986 and 1995, employer would pro- Economic struggling. community involvement. more than 1,000 banks with total assets vide a reasonable relo- Development But we have the ability to recognize “The line it is drawn, the curse is cast, exceeding $500 billion failed. By 1999, the cation package to assist one’s effort to move. these changes and to create and take advan- crisis cost $153 billion, with taxpayers foot- To day, the movement of Americans is tage of opportunities in our community to the slow one now, will later be fast, as the ing the bill for $124 billion, and the S&L at its lowest level since World War II. Weak forge our own partnerships for success. present now, will later be past… The times industry paying the rest. housing markets of the past 4-5 years now Local leadership and willingness to they are a-changin’.” –Bob Dylan, 1963. ■ And more recently with the goals of find millions of people buried in their increasing home ownership and creating homes, with no chance of selling at a profit. 0000977560 new methods of financing home mortgages, Note that roughly one in four homeowners the restrictions on lenders and financial across the nations is under water on their Business2 institutions eased and away we went with home… they owe more on their mortgage Business DIrEctory “The line it is drawn, the curse is cast, Embroidery the slow one now, will later be fast, as EmbroidMe of DaytonaBeach the present now, will later be past… 1808 W. InternationalSpeedway Blvd., Suite304A Daytona Beach, FL 32114 The times they are a-changin’.” 386-255-5880 [email protected] —Bob Dylan - 1963 www.embroidme-daytonabeach.com real estate values soaring. The cost of this than the home is worth. The largest embroidery, screen printing and promotional product company in the world. last crisis is yet to be determined, but will In addition, pressures upon profitabili- make the prior ones mere blips on the ty have found fewer companies willing to Insurance charts. provide attractive relocation packages. Even

And now we are wondering when and fewer employers are willing to take a hit on B Dunn &Associates how long the recovery will take? While I the prospective new employee’s current res- Insurance Inc. 324 W. Int’lSpeedway Blvd., don’t believe this is the Great Depression II, idence. Daytona Beach, FL it certainly has been the most severe down- This has profound implications for the 386-255-2477 turn since then. It is improbable to imagine American economy, with perhaps the great- www.dunn-insurance.com •Homes •Flood •Mobile Homes •Commercial Packages •Autos •Boats an annual increase in home values every est impact on manufacturing firms around •Motorcycles •Life •IRA •Annunities •Group/Individual Health •Medicare • year which would catch up to those inflated the nation. A recent survey noted that Disability•Long Term Care •Employee Benefits •individual/Group Dental home prices. American manufacturers cannot fill 2 Insurance As the tortoise plods toward the recov- 600,000 skilled positions, or 5 percent of all ery of real estate values, I believe the current manufacturing jobs. This mismatch HaywardBrown, Inc. impact to our society will be the greatest of needs, skills, and inability of workers to 202 Seabreeze Blvd. change since World War II. relocate keeps the nation’s unemployment 386-252-5546 [email protected] We are no longer a mobile society. The rate high. www.haywardbrown.com times they are a-changin’, as the Bob Dylan The desire for moving to a smaller song goes. home is handicapped by caring for aging General Insurance Agency offering personal and commercial property,casualty,life, health, disability and annuities. Home, Auto, Business, Workers Compensationand Bonds. BB B

An official publication of the Volusia County Economic Development Division — First quarter 2012  County advisory committee to market area airports

County airports a vital tool in community’s economic development strategy

Florida’s economic well-being is inextricably linked with the ’s director of business development. “A s an enter- She said the dialogue at the county’s airport committee its airports and a robust aviation industry. The recent prise fund in the overall county government budget, the air- meetings will help in promoting aviation in the area and avia- Statewide Aviation Economic Impact Study concludes that the port operates without local property tax dollars.” tion-related economic development. She regularly reviews sound of an airplane overhead is the sound of Florida’s econo- Other airports in Volusia County are smaller, but also weekly reports from Volusia County Economic Development my in motion. contribute to the regional economy through attracting general referencing leads for industrial prospects. Volusia County has five airports that accommodate gen- and corporate aviation and economic development invest- Ormond Beach Municipal Airport consists of 1,128 acres eral and corporate aviation. Because they represent significant ment. These include DeLand Municipal Airport, Ormond which includes the airport operations area and neighboring potential economic impact, the county’s economic develop- Beach Municipal Airport, New Smyrna Beach Municipal Riverbend Golf Club. City officials said the airport committee ment director, Phil Ehlinger, formed the Volusia County Airport, and Massey Ranch Airpark. Each of these airports has established dialogue with the Flagler County, DeLand and Airports Advisory Committee as a platform to share ideas and (except Massey Ranch Airpark) logs more than 100,000 air- New Smyrna Beach airports to discuss common challenges Fexplore opportunities for the cities and the county. craft landings and takeoffs annually. and operational issues. “In an increasing number of communities, airports have DeLand Municipal Airport consists of 1,300 acres including “Marketing aviation resources in Volusia County is help- become an economic engine attracting new employers, capital more than 200 acres dedicated to industrial enterprises with more ful to us all,” said Joe Mannarino, Ormond Beach economic investment and, of course, jobs,” said Ehlinger, who is a pilot than two dozen companies and organizations flanking airside development director. “A nd as we prepare 87 acres of our air- and aviation enthusiast. “Most airports have land that is set operations. “It’s a busy airport,” said Nick Landgraff, the airport’s port footprint for economic development prospects, we wel- aside as a buffer to adjacent property. But while these lands manager. “A nd as one of the world’s leading centers for skydiving come the opportunity of showcasing our facility to those who are not likely to be used for additional aviation operations, we have a great deal of aviation involving skydiving and businesses put a premium on an airport location, taxiway access and they can be prime locations for corporate relocation or expan- that support skydiving activity.” other benefits.” sion activity. This can add to the vitality of the airport itself The airport also has historical significance. The City of Massey Ranch Airpark is part of a privately owned fly-in and generate significant payrolls, tax revenue and lease rev- DeLand established the airport in the 1920s. The Navy came to residential community, but the airport is open to the public in enue to the municipality in which the airport is located and DeLand in 1941 and the city donated the airport to the Navy which accommodating general and corporate aviation. In addition to the entire county. Our new committee will consider marketing bought additional adjacent property. Navy bomber squadrons opportunities that may be useful to one or more members as patrolled the coast of Florida for submarines and trained pilots and serving resident aircraft owners, Massey Ranch Airpark also is well as to Volusia County.” gunners that came here for dive bomb training. In 1946 and the used by some area flight schools and offers commercial and The numbers back Ehlinger’s statements. Aviation in Navy returned the entire field over to the City of DeLand, which industrial acreage with direct taxiway access. Florida accounts for more than $114 billion in annual economic established the DeLand Naval Air Station Museum in 1992. Its “When you evaluate the aviation assets in Volusia County, activity. Locally, Volusia’s airports contribute to this figure and Master of Arms was restored in 1995 and is on the National and combine them with the fact that Embry-Riddle add to the vitality of the local economy. Register of Historic Places. Aeronautical University, the world’s leading aviation and aero- Daytona Beach International Airport, situated on 2,000 New Smyrna Beach Municipal Airport, situated on 718 acres space university, is in this community this has significance in acres, is a highly important component of the area’s economy. along U.S. 1, accommodates a variety of activity. “We have a fair the aviation industry,” said Ehlinger. “A dvisory committee The airport is home to 40 tenant businesses, whose land leas- amount of flight training here,” said Rhonda Walker, airport man- members share the common goal of attracting and retaining es contribute to the airport’s operating budget. “Income from ager. “Of course, we have recreational pilots and we also accom- aviation and avionics businesses through coordinated market- these tenants, FAA and FDOT grants, and income from modate corporate aircraft for executives who live or vaction here, ing efforts. The development of a strategic plan to accomplish ground operations fund the airport budget,” said Steve Cooke, or NASCAR teams traveling here for practice or Speedweeks.” that is our overarching challenge.” ■

An official publication of the Volusia County Economic Development Division — First quarter 2012  Collaboration steers economic growth within Florida’s High Tech Corridor Stretching across 23 counties in the central part of the ness incubation program has facilitated the growth of at least state sits the region gaining international recognition as a Guest Columnist: 100 new high tech companies in the Central Florida region major high tech hub and economic development initiative. It’s and created 3,120 jobs since 1999. A recent study commis- called Florida’s High Te ch Corridor. sioned by FHTCC and conducted by W. H. Owen Consulting The region encompasses the service areas of three of the Randy Berridge Inc. found that the total economic output of the client compa- largest universities in the country — the University of Central resources in one online web portal – had the potential to grow nies and incubator’s operations is $84.8 million annually. Florida, the University of South Florida, and the University of way beyond its existing Volusia County footprint. Volusia County is likely start to see a similar effect in the local Florida — and contains nearly 20,000 high tech companies. With funding from the Florida High Te ch Corridor community after companies graduate from the newly opened At the eastern end of the corridor, Volusia County and its lead- Council, the development team expanded the site (flvec.com) incubator at Daytona Beach International Airport. ers have played a critical role in driving initiatives that are to serve the 23-county corridor region, and the site is now live The spirit of collaboration among Florida High Te ch Shelping to spur the economy’s growth through this regional in 14 additional Florida counties. Since July 1, 2011, FLVEC has Corridor Council partners has been the driving force for creat- partnership. experienced a traffic volume increase of 17 percent – a great ing and – more importantly – sharing innovative initiatives Established to grow high tech industry and innovation representation of the value of the expanding resources avail- across city boundaries and county lines. With the creation through research, workforce and marketing partnerships, the able through the online database. The driving force for this and adoption of these and other programs, Volusia County Florida High Te ch Corridor Council (FHTCC) works with its initiative started in Volusia County with many partners includ- sets the bar for spurring economic growth with strategic part- partners, including those in Volusia County, to support pro- ing Mary Bruno, a member of the Florida High Te ch Corridor nerships throughout the corridor. ■ grams such as the Florida Virtual Entrepreneur Center Council’s core team, and fellow core team member Michael (FLVEC). The FLVEC concept originally was developed in Zaharios at Daytona State College who serves as the website 2004 through a higher education initiative that included the administrator of FLVEC. RANDY BERRIDGE, University of Central Florida Volusia County campus, Daytona Other Florida High Te ch Corridor Council-backed proj- President, Florida High State College, Bethune-Cookman University, Embry-Riddle ects continue to impact the local economy and create jobs, Te ch Corridor Council Aeronautical University and Stetson University. Their idea – including its support for university-based incubators. For combining local, county, state and national entrepreneurial example, the University of Central Florida’s successful busi-

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An official publication of the Volusia County Economic Development Division — First quarter 2012  COVER STORY Lesa France Kennedy this year’s State of the County honoree

Businesswoman Lesa France Sciences. ed motorsports entertainment com- ment of motorsports. She has Kennedy is known internationally France Kennedy serves as pany. She also serves as a vice received numerous industry hon- for her accomplishments in the chief executive officer and vice chairperson of NASCAR. ors, including: highly competitive motorsports Most Powerful Woman in industry and locally for her support Sports, Forbes (2009); of many community initiatives. She Most Influential Woman in is this year’s Volusia County Business, Volusia Flagler Business Community Leader of the Ye ar, a Report (2006); recognition that’s among the high- Most Influential Woman in lights of Volusia County Sports Business, Street and Smith’s Government’s annual State of the SportsBusiness Journal (2005); BCounty presentation. Volusia Female Sports Executive of the County Chair Frank Bruno and Ye ar, Street and Smith’s Daytona Beach Mayor Glenn SportsBusiness Journal (2001); Ritchey will be presenting the One of the 25 Most Influential honor. People in NASCAR, Charlotte She is the fifth person to be so Observer - 2001 through 2006; honored by the county. Juneteenth 2009 Hometown “Lesa’s contributions to motor- Hero, City of Daytona Beach sports are significant,” said Bruno. Founded in 1953, ISC is a lead- “The fact that she was named the ing promoter of motorsports enter- Most Powerful Woman in Sports by tainment activities in the United Forbes magazine is testimony to States. that fact. But her contributions to The company owns and/or our community often go without operates 13 of the nation’s premier fanfare. So it is an honor to shed a motorsports entertainment facili- little light on her work that benefits ties, which in total have more a mil- all of us right here in Volusia lion grandstand seats and 525 suites. County.” ISC’s facilities are in six of the Mayor Ritchey echoed Bruno’s News-Journal photo/DAVID TUCKER comments. “The list of local causes International Speedway Corporation CEO Lesa France Kennedy. nation’s top 12 media markets, and and organizations that Lesa and her nearly 80 percent of the country’s family have supported is a mile population is within the primary long,” he said. “From making life trading areas of its facilities. better for children undergoing ISC promotes major motor- treatment at the state-of-the-art sports events in every month of the Speediatrics pediatric unit at race season — more than any other Halifax Health Medical Center, to motorsports promoter. Collectively, rallying support to build Habitat for ISC’s 13 facilities promote more Humanity homes, to joining other than 100 motorsports events during community leaders by rolling up the race season beginning with the her sleeves to attract new business- events leading up to the Dayton 500 es to the area through the CEO at Daytona International Speedway. Business Alliance, when there is a The company also owns and need in our city, in our county, it’s operates MRN Radio, the nation’s never a surprise to see the name largest independent sports radio Lesa France Kennedy in the leader- network, and Americrown Service ship position.” Corporation, a subsidiary that pro- France Kennedy has long sup- vides catering services, food and ported cultural endeavors such as Photo courtesy of ISC Archives and Images many local appearances by the International Speedway Corporation CEO Lesa France Kennedy and beverage concessions, and produces London Symphony Orchestra. She son, NASCAR K&N Pro Series East driver Ben Kennedy, attend the and markets motorsports-related has also supported the American 2011 NASCAR season finale weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway. merchandise. Heart Association, the Victory chairperson of the board of direc- Joining the company in 1983, Kennedy has bachelor of arts Junction Gang, and the Daytona tors for International Speedway Kennedy has been instrumental in degrees in economics and psychol- Beach Museum of Arts and Corporation (ISC), a NASDAQ-list- the growth of ISC and the advance- ogy from Duke University. ■

An official publication of the Volusia County Economic Development Division — First quarter 2012  Ormond Beach company achieves its goal to receive ISO quality rating. Above: Mark Andrews, president. Hudson Technologies receives international environmental management certification

Ormond Beach-based Hudson Te chnologies is eco- several years ago when we eliminated the use of chlorinated The JSJ Corporation is a privately held collection of friendly and has the documentation to prove it. The company lubricants and solvents,” said Mark Andrews, Hudson growth companies that provide industry-leading durable recently announced its environmental management system Te chnologies president. “We are very proud that our manu- goods and services globally. Established in 1919, JSJ is led today has received ISO 14001: 2004 certification. facturing process produces no hazardous waste.” by a blend of third-generation family members and profession- The ISO 14001: 2004 standard is an internationally recog- Hudson Te chnologies manufactures deep drawn, or al managers. nized framework that requires a company to demonstrate seamless, metal cases for a variety of industries. Deep drawn The corporation’s six businesses include Hudson compliance with applicable environmental legislation and cases, also called stampings, are used to enclose technology in Te chnologies, Dake, GHSP, izzy+, McLoone and Sparks Belting. requirements, and a continuing commitment to improvement. components for aerospace, automotive, aviation, commercial JSJ businesses provide products and services to global cus- According to the International Organization for battery, implantable medical devices, relay switch cases, tomers ranging in scale from small startups to the largest Standards, ISO 14001: 2004 certification helps assure employ- capacitors, flow control, irrigation, semi-conductor manufac- O multinational corporations. ees, customers, suppliers, its community, and regulatory agen- turing and other applications worldwide. Founded in 1940, cies the company is an environmentally-responsible organiza- Hudson Te chnologies has more than 200 employees and is a The company’s quality management system also holds tion. business of JSJ Corporation, Grand Haven, Michigan. ISO 9001:2008 and 13485:2003 certifications. All three ISO cer- “This certification is the culmination of our efforts to Additional information is available at www.hudson-technolo- tifications, registered by Orion Registrar Inc., are effective become an environmentally sound company, efforts that began gies.com and www.jsjcorp.com. through October 2014. ■

An official publication of the Volusia County Economic Development Division — First quarter 2012  Buying local initiative gets new push In 2009 the Volusia County Economic by the Daytona Beach News-Journal, seven Development Division called on local resi- area chambers of commerce and Volusia dents and manufacturers and other busi- County Economic Development. The event nesses to buy from local sources and included exhibits of more than 100 local encouraged them to do so to keep our dol- companies, each showcasing products and lars in Volusia County. In 2011, the Buy Local services useful to consumers and local man- effort again has been promoted by VCED, ufacturers. The day-long event had a steady but this time with the full support of many stream of patrons strolling among the business partners. booths and gathering information from Major study seeks big “While an increasing number of busi- exhibitors. Many of those patrons expressed nesses and residents are taking the time to interest in having their own company exhib- find local sources for their purchases, the it at the next edition of the event. potential for a dramatic increase in local pur- “Buy local efforts are not uncommon picture analysis of chases is enormous,” said Phil Ehlinger, and generally produce results,” said Larry Volusia County Economic Development McKinney, president of the Daytona Director. “The obvious niches include com- Regional Chamber of Commerce. “What modities such as televisions, computers, and gave the Buy Local Business Expo signifi- tourism marketing raw materials. When a local manufacturer cance locally is that so many entities lined buys from another, or a consumer shops at a up behind the event. The county’s Economic Millions of dollars in public and private high, which is a good indicator of spirited local merchant rather than the internet, he Development Division, the Daytona Regional money is spent annually on tourism promo- community participation and a solid result,” or she may be saving a neighbor’s job.” Chamber of Commerce, the chambers in tion. In perhaps the first of its kind locally, an said Fenton. “We have some good ideas, but Volusia County Economic Holly Hill, DeLand, Ormond Beach, and Port independent analysis will evaluate the effec- how we craft those ideas will be influenced by Development has been promoting the Buy Orange/South Daytona were all in. And hav- tiveness of those expenditures in comparison what we hear from people who participate in Local effort with marketing messages on its ing the county sponsorship made the spot- with competitors. the process.” website floridabusiness.org, at its popular light that much brighter.” An independent analysis of countywide Strategic Advisory Group (SAG) was quarterly breakfast briefings on the econo- The chamber’s chief operating officer, tourism and convention marketing efforts by selected from among seven finalists that had my, and in printed material. It also produces Kevin Kilian added that the value of the Volusia County’s tourism advertising authori- competed for the assignment. SAG is an advi- a variety of directories that allow businesses forum was elevated due to the potential for ties and the Ocean Center is the goal of a sory services firm that helps organizations to cross-reference each other to see which savings and efficiency that comes with buy- major study commissioned by the Volusia navigate the road ahead by recognizing oppor- companies offer which products and servic- ing local, especially following the economic County Council. The study kicked off with a tunity, clarifying vision, creating strategies, es. challenges that many businesses have been reception for the community in January and is implementing action and measuring results. This effort got a significant boost in dealing with over the past few years. He said well under way. It is headquartered in Atlanta and has offices December with the inaugural Buy Local that plans already are under way for next “We have invested $81 million in the in Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Ta mpa Bay and Volusia Expo. The event was held at Daytona year’s event, which is expected to be a sell- expansion of the Ocean Center and now have Wilmington. SAG has provided consultation International Speedway and was sponsored out, as was this year’s event. ■ a world class complex,” said Volusia County to clients in more than 150 domestic and Chair Frank Bruno. “We need to ensure we are international markets. 0000976466 doing everything we can to market the com- Fenton is Associate Partner with SAG. plex and Volusia County. We do many things He has more than 25 years of hospitality and very well, but it is important to get an inde- destination marketing experience, including pendent analysis of our assets and our sales having served as CEO of the San Jose and marketing efforts to ensure we are com- Convention and Visitors Bureau. He also has peting as efficiently and effectively as we can.” held executive positions with Radisson, While the study will include information Amfac, and Hyatt Hotels and is a graduate of •Home •Flood extracted from interviews with dozens of the Cornell University School of Hospitality Helping YouSolve Your •Mobile Homes individuals in the local tourism industry, the Management. •Commercial Packages process is open to anyone who wishes to offer Interested individuals who want to fol- Insurance Problems •Auto •Boat •Motorcycles comments, observations and suggestions, low progress on the To urism Study – or offer Serving YouSince1968 Life -IRAs -Annuities Group &Individual Health according to project director Daniel Fenton of comments – may do so by visiting Medicare-Disability Strategic Advisory Group, which holds the voluisa.org/study. County officials and the Long Term Care 255-2477 EmployeeBenefits contract to conduct the study. “If attendance SAG team encourage people to send their www.dunn-insurance.com Dental -Individual &GroupCoverage at the kickoff event is any indication, I would comments to the website, which will carry 324 W. INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY BLVD •DAYTONABEACH,FL say community interest in this study is very periodic updated on the project. ■

An official publication of the Volusia County Economic Development Division — First quarter 2012  Scene & noted… ComimingngneNext moxt ntMohintn...h... News and notes from recent edi- tions of On the Economic Scene, the Monday morning newsletter of Volusia County Economic Development

ONLINE VERSION AT FLORIDABUSINESS.ORG

On the Economic Scene is Volusia County Economic Development’s popular newsletter that Cover Story: “Aviation/Aerospace” is faxed every Monday and then posted on-line. The one-page communication features timely briefs on economic development-related subjects. The newsletter reaches more than 2,000 people Local economic development officials see thisindustrysector as one of the keys every week. If you would like to receive it, contact Volusia County Economic Development at 386-248-8048. Here are a few briefs that appeared in recent editions. If you have news you to growing the local economy. We’ll look at local effortsinboth Volusia and Flagler would like to share, please send it to Dave Byron, Volusia County Community Services countiestoattractmore aviation/aerospace-related businesses to the area, which Department director, 123 W. Indiana Ave., DeLand, FL 32720-4612, or by e-mail at: dby- [email protected]. is home to several airports as well as Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

DSC SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER HELPS BUSINESSES AND ENTREPRENEURS — The Small Business Development Center at Daytona State College provides business owners and budding Plus: entrepreneurs with access to individual business management assistance, along with workshops and group training programs. Certified business analysts provide free confidential information and advice in person, over the phone and by email. There are counseling sites in east and west Volusia County. To take • “One-on-One,” anew monthly Q&A with amover and shaker in the advantage of this service, complete a request for counseling form which can be accessed at: sbdcday- business community. tona.com/counseling.cfm. • “Moving Up,” alook at notable hires, promotions and achievementsof OPT OUT OF CREDIT CARD OFFERS — Credit card offers do not affect your credit score, so if you’re business people across the region. tired of receiving them, you can opt to remove your name from the credit reporting agency lists for unso- licited credit and insurance offers. That will remove your name for five years. Call toll free 888-567-8688 • “The Buzz,” aquick look at notable recent business deals, data and news or go to: optoutprescreen.com. tidbitsyou can’t get anywhereelse.

VOLUSIA LIBRARIES OFFER WEALTH OF INFO FOR BUSINESS — Volusia County Public Library’s web- • “Business Seen,” aphotographic reportofrecent business events. site provides access to several online research and reference databases for entrepreneurs, small busi- (Ifyou attended an event,you might just see yourself in Business Seen.) nesses, researchers and job seekers. Users can create marketing plans, conduct a competitive analy- sis, identify potential employers and even raise funds. ReferenceUSA Search Essentials training web- • “How IDoIt,” atip from alocal expertabout how to do business the casts are conducted Fridays at noon. To log in go to: volusialibrary.org/QR/VCPLreferenceUSA.html. This rightway. and many more services are offered free to Volusia County library cardholders. For more information go to: volusialibrary.org. • “5 minutes with ...,” aquick-read featurewherereaderscan learn things they don’t know about ahigh-profile member of the business community. NEW SBA REFINANCING RULES MAKE MORE COMPANIES ELIGIBLE — The Small Business Administration recently changed the rules for the 504 Debt Refinancing Program. Many more small busi- • Calendar Of Upcoming Business Events. nesses are now eligible for great 504 refinancing rates and terms plus working capital. For information go to: ffcfc.com or call 904-861-2270.

INTERNATIONAL MARKETING PLAN HELP AVAILABLE — Enterprise Florida is launching a program to provide new and infrequent exporters with international marketing plans. Gold Keys are available upon completion of a marketing plan. Scholarships may be available from Volusia County Economic Development. For information contact John Kizer at Volusia County Economic Development. He can be reached by email at: [email protected] or by telephone at 386-248-8048.

WEBSITE FOR DOING BUSINESS WITH THE STATE — MyFloridaMarketPlace is the state’s online exchange for buyers and vendors. This is a source for centralized procurement activities, streamlining interactions among vendors and state government entities and providing tools to support procurement for the state. More than 139,000 vendors have registered with MyFloridaMarketPlace, which is part of the Florida Department of Management Services. Since 2002, 32 state agencies using the system placed more than 986,000 purchase orders and spent more than $9.3 billion. For information go to: tinyurl.com/selltoflorida.

COUNTY’S ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT QUARTERLY DISTRIBUTED TO 7,000 SUBSCRIBERS — More than 7,000 Volusia County residents and businesses receive Volusia County Economic Development Quarterly (EDQ), published by Volusia County Economic Development in partnership with the Daytona Beach News-Journal. EDQ is free and is mailed to subscribers. It also is distributed at select area loca- tions. To learn the latest information on economic growth in the county, or to advertise to reach prospec- tive customers, subscribe today by calling 386-248-8048. To advertise in this well-read publication, con- tact Lois Duncan at the Daytona Beach News-Journal at 386-681-2500. To Advertise, call For Editorial,call FUNDS FOR BUDDING SMALL BUSINESSES — Startup America is a $1 billion fund to provide match- ing capital to early-stage small businesses to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship by leveraging 386.681.2500 386.681.2470 private investment. The White House has announced a private-sector partnership with $1 billion in serv- or email: [email protected] or email: [email protected] ices – from free software and consulting to legal services – to 100,000 start-up companies over the next three years. For information go to: sba.gov/s tartupamerica.

An official publication of the Volusia County Economic Development Division — First quarter 2012  Peter Bauer Exterior of the new Epic Theaters completed in December, in Deltona.

Jim Tiller (3) Left, Greg Roberts, (white hat) and Nicolas Escobar (yellow hat) lift a wooden beam into place on a house under construction in the Brier Creek section of the Grande Champion at LPGA International subdivision in Daytona Beach. Middle, the new Chase Bank under construction at the corner of Shadow Lakes Blvd. and Nova Road in Ormond Beach. Right, construction continues at the Andros Isles Apartments off Williamson Boulevard in Daytona Beach. New construction activity continues slow but steady to close out 2011; area builders hopeful, but expect only gradual improvement in 2012

The volume of new construction projects in ly from the 15 issued in the second quarter. Commercial 2008, construction activity has remained fairly stable, Volusia County in the fourth quarter of 2011 dipped construction activity surged in the first quarter of 2011 but way below the boom of a few years ago. from the previous quarter, due in part to the holidays, with 30 permits issued. However, that number was Ehlinger said he doesn’t expect to see a sizeable but held relatively steady as has been the case the past influenced by a single project: the massive 10-building, increase in construction activity until the inventory of several quarters, with the exception of a couple of 360-unit Andros Isles apartment complex on Beville resale and foreclosure properties shrinks significantly. notable big projects. Road in Daytona Beach, just east of Interstate 95. The building permit data compiled by the county is According to statistics gathered by the county’s “We’re bouncing along the bottom,” said Phil only for new projects and is not a complete measure of Economic Development Division from the county and Ehlinger, Volusia County economic development direc- the level of construction activity locally. city building permit offices, 111 residential building per- tor, of the fourth quarter building permit numbers. Anthony Viscomi, president of Viscomi mits were issued in the final three months of the year, “This last year, it’s almost been stable, but it’s certainly Construction Inc., Ormond Beach, said his company Tdown from 134 in the third quarter and 142 in the sec- at the bottom.” has seen an increase in job orders in the past year. ond quarter, but up from the 104 issued in the first A look at the number of building permits issued “We’re doing more work now and have more work in quarter of 2011. each quarter for residential and commercial projects in the pipeline than we’ve had since early 2008,” he said. On the commercial side, 18 building permits were Volusia County the past five years shows that after However, this increase in activity wouldn’t be issued, down from 23 in the third quarter, but up slight- falling sharply in 2007, followed by smaller drop in reflected in the latest building permit data because the

An official publication of the Volusia County Economic Development Division — First quarter 2012  majority of the work orders Viscomi has been receiving lately are for remodeling or expansion Spec homes are built without buyers, a practice that was common during the most recent of existing homes. real estate boom, which peaked in 2005, but which isn’t so common when the economy is That said, Viscomi added that the remodeling/renovation projects his company has been struggling. taking on are not small jobs. “Ours start at $70,000 and up,” he said. “People are adding sizeable When asked why his company would build spec homes when there are many foreclosure square footage to their homes and we’re also involved in several renovations of luxury condo- properties available at prices lower than builders can match, Adley responded: “There are buy- miniums and penthouses. I know other builders that are doing the same.” ers that will not buy a foreclosure. They want a new home that has all the new energy efficien- One recent change is the increase in customers who are paying in cash. “Hardly any of cy standards and that meets all the current hurricane code requirements and that doesn’t have these deals are being financed through banks,” he said of his company’s customers. “Ninety per- cent are cash.” architectural obsolence and is in a stabilized neighborhood.” Viscomi said the key for success for his company was to lower its overhead costs, which Among the building permit offices, the 21 residential permits issued by county govern- has enabled it to offer lower prices to customers. “There is work (for builders) to be had out ment for unincorporated Volusia County topped all jurisdictions. Most of the county-issued there, but you have to be competitive,” he said. Viscomi recently began a one-year term as presi- residential permits were in subdivisions just outside city limits. “They’re spread around as dent of the Volusia Building Industry Association. opposed to being clustered in just one or two subdivisions,” said Ehlinger. The 17 residential Jamie Adley, a co-owner of Winston-James Development, South Daytona, said new home permits issued by New Smyrna Beach in the fourth quarter was the most among the county’s construction activity locally has been down. “No question about it,” but he said he has seen an cities. Port Orange issued 16 residential permits; DeLand 14; Daytona Beach 12; and Ormond increase in potential homebuyers in recent months. Sales were up in the fourth quarter at the Beach 11. Villages of Royal Palm, the master-planned community in Port Orange where Winston-James Orange City issued six commercial permits in the fourth quarter, the most among jurisdic- has built and sold 380 homes since 2001. The total potential buildout of the community is 476 tions. Port Orange was next with five commercial permits issued. homes. “I’m very optimistic about 2012,” he said. He added that his company is pleased with the Notable projects under construction in the fourth quarter included the 12-screen Epic City of Port Orange’s recent decision to lower residential impact fees. He said his company Theatres movie theater in Deltona, which opened in December, and the ongoing construction plans to begin construction of a couple of “spec” homes at the Villages of Royal Palm this at the $50-million Andros Isles apartments in Daytona Beach, where several buildings have spring, after the city’s lower impact fees take effect in March. been completed. ■

An official publication of the Volusia County Economic Development Division — First quarter 2012  0000960483 PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Daytona Beach, FL Permit #150

Business assistance. Training.Exporting.Start-ups.

TheVolusia CountyDivision of We areavailable to assist our cities We provide training and supportof Economic Development is available and chambers of commerce to new business startups and develop- forbusiness assistance, workforce promotethe growth of new jobs and ing technologies through our part- training,exporting assistanceand industrialpark investment. nerships withour local colleges and grants,industrial revenue bond universities. financing,incentives forexpansion Call us to see if we can help and for and more. your copy of the new 2012 Corporate Guide Volusia.

www.floridabusiness.orgtECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT elephone: 386.248.8048

An official publication of the Volusia County Economic Development Division — First quarter 2012