After six years of running the Orange County Economic Development Corporation, Jessica Hill is leaving her position to join Entergy.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time here in Orange County and feel like that we’ve taken some positive steps,” she said. “I believe more people know where Orange County is now and what we can offer.”
Hill came to Orange County from the Beaumont Chamber of Commerce. “You knew pretty quick that she brought more to the table than just Chamber experience,” said County Judge John Gothia. “She had experience with issues on the state and federal level. And she came in here with a lot of pressure on her and had to deal with all of the entities that make up the OCEDC and she did a great job. “
“I just hate that she’s not going to be here to see the fruits of her labor,” he continued. “She’s worked hard on many projects that are on the board for the county.”
The biggest project of course is the Chevron Phillips plant. (Although they haven’t officially announced…) “The CP Chem project is certainly the crowning achievement,” she said. We also have the new Entergy plant and we’ve seen an increase in new retail and housing.”
Hill has joined Entergy in their Project Management Department. Orange County will be included in her area, along with Jefferson, Chambers, and Hardin County. “It’s a great opportunity for me and my family,” Hill said.
Hill added that she will miss her team and the area. “Orange County has really come together through disasters and economic growth. Leadership is taking the county in the right direction.”
I asked Hill if there was anything she wished she had brought to our area while she was here, and she quickly said, “Buc-ees!” with a smile. That has been a running joke around the county for years but Hill said there had actually been some conversation with the company in the past.
Megan Layne, the OCEDC Business Development Manager, will take over on an interim basis while the board decides on a new director.
-Gary Stelly, KOGT-
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