TO: BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
THROUGH: John A Titkanich, Jr., County Administrator
John Stoll, Planning & Development Services Director
FROM: Doug Dombroski, Economic Development Manager
DATE: January 14, 2026
SUBJECT: Economic Development Strategic Action Plan
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BACKGROUND
This is a request for consideration of the Indian River County Economic Development Strategic Action Plan (EDSAP), developed by TIP Strategies, Inc. TIP Strategies will present the final draft plan at the Board’s regular meeting on January 27, 2026.
In August 2024, Indian River County issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to identify a qualified firm to lead the development of a long-range, data-driven economic development strategy. Following a competitive procurement process, TIP Strategies, Inc. was selected and contracted in November 2024. TIP commenced work in January 2024 with a comprehensive review of baseline economic data, internal analysis of target industries, opportunity sites, and available incentives.
A significant component of the planning process involved public and stakeholder engagement. TIP conducted one-on-one interviews and outreach sessions with key stakeholders early in the project. In February 2025, the firm facilitated a series of targeted roundtable discussions with representatives from manufacturing, development, education, young professionals, small businesses, aviation, agriculture, and healthcare sectors.
In May 2025, TIP hosted morning and evening town hall meetings at three different locations across the County. These sessions drew more than 100 participants, offering valuable public input that helped shape the plan’s direction.
The Economic Development Council (EDC) was involved early in the process holding a special EDC “Opportunities Workshop” in June of 2025 to establish economic development priorities and potential plan strategies. Additionally, the EDC played an important role throughout the process, reviewing and providing feedback to TIP and County staff on draft content during their regular meetings in May, July, September, and November 2025.
At their regular meeting on November 18, 2025, the EDC made a unanimous recommendation that the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) consider adoption of the plan.
PLAN OVERVIEW
The Treasured Tomorrow: Indian River County Economic Development Strategic Action Plan is a 10-year roadmap designed to guide the County’s economic development efforts through 2035.
The EDSAP is intended provide a cohesive and forward-thinking framework to guide Indian River County’s economic development policies and initiatives. The plan utilizes specific goals as the three-part strategic framework:
1. Attraction and Retention of Target Industries: Identifying and supporting high-impact employment sectors with potential for growth and diversification in the County.
2. Catalytic Development of Opportunity Sites: Leveraging key locations and assets to drive investment and long-term value creation.
3. Utilization and Expansion of County Resources: Enhancing programs, tools, and partnerships to support economic development and competitiveness.
The plan outlines specific objectives, actionable initiatives, and performance metrics to ensure clear direction and quantitative and qualitative evaluation over the next decade. Upon adoption of the plan, County staff will begin implementation planning, including initiative prioritization and alignment of resources. Consistent communication during implementation with the EDC and community stakeholders will be necessary for the plan’s success.
BUDGETARY IMPACT
There is no cost to the County associated with this agenda item.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Recommended Action
Staff recommends the Board of County Commissioners adopt the Indian River County Economic Development Strategic Action Plan, drafted by TIP Strategies, Inc.