The Nature Coast Business Development Council, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity contracted to handle economic development on behalf of Levy County and its eight incorporated municipalities. The organization looks to improve the quality of life for its resident by helping existing businesses grow while attracting others that support these businesses. The targeted industry includes agribusiness/agritourism, aviation, financial, distribution, healthcare/medical, manufacturing, and transportation/logistics.
History
The Levy County Development Authority was created in 1985 through a resolution by the Board of County Commissioners. It operated under the provisions of Florida Statutes for the purpose of fostering economic development in the County.
Holding its very first meeting in November of that year, two members appointed to the LCDA - Doug King and Walt McJordan - later would serve on the NCBDC Board until 2015.
Neal Benson was its first Executive Director, hired on a part-time basis in 1988; he was succeeded two years later by Debbie Beauchamp, who was succeeded by Geroge Sandora in 1990. Sandora served for seven years.
The Levy County Economic Development Council was incorporated in 1990 "to promote orderly and beneficial economic growth and to provide input and lend support to any function or project of the Levy County Development Authority." In May of 2001, the County Commission through another resolution created the Nature Coast Business Development Council, Inc. - Merging the EDC and LCDA into one organization.
Today
The mission of the NCBDC is to create economic prosperity in the communities it serves Bronson, Cedar Key, Chiefland, Fanning Springs, Inglis, Otter Creek, Williston, and Yankeetown. Through community partners and its staff, it assists new and expanding businesses with site selection, capital acquisition, business plan review, technical assistance, growth and expansion, staffing needs, marketing and more. Its Board of Directors enjoys pristine nature-miles of coastline, wetlands, preserves, forests, springs and abundant recreational opportunities-while ensuring responsible and desired growth occur. The Board is diverse as the landscape of the Nature Coast, with backgrounds that include Business management, economic development, education, and real estate.
NCBDC Annual Reports:
NCBDC Regular Monthly Board Meetings Announcements
George Buckner III, Acting Chairperson
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 532
Inglis, FL 34449
Street Address:
26 Hwy 40 West
Inglis, FL 34449
Email: director@naturecoast.org
Website: www.naturecoast.org
Main Office Hours: Please call for an appointment.