Plain City: We Mean Business.
Our Role
Plain City is serious about smart, sustainable growth, and it shows. As the village continues to evolve, we’ve built a robust internal development team focused on strategic land use, business support, and infrastructure planning. In 2024, we took the next step by establishing the Plain City Economic Development Corporation (PCEDC), a community improvement corporation focused on long-term economic vitality. Together, we serve as the primary resource for business attraction, expansion, and retention, working hand-in-hand with regional, and state partners to align priorities, respond to leads, and deliver solutions that move Plain City forward.
Contact Us
When it comes to our economic development program, we offer one-stop shopping for businesses looking to relocate or expand to Plain City. Contact us to get started.
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Jason Stanford
Development Director
Mr. Stanford has served as Development Director for Plain City since 2022. A seasoned economic development professional with 20 years of experience, he leads business outreach, marketing, and economic analysis, helping drive job creation and private investment through lead generation, partnerships, and community engagement. He is a member of IEDC and the Ohio Economic Development Association.
Derek Hutchinson
Planner
Mr. Hutchinson supports economic development through zoning administration, site plan review, and growth management. With several years of planning and development experience, he has a strong track record of guiding successful projects in growing communities and has led zoning and planning efforts in Plain City since 2022. He is a member of the American Planning Association.
Colin Powers
Zoning Specialist
Mr. Powers joined Plain City in 2023. He holds a B.S. in City and Regional Planning from The Ohio State University and plays a key role in supporting economic development by managing zoning permits, assisting with plan reviews, and streamlining the application process. He is a member of the Ohio Code Enforcement Officials Association and is committed to ensuring efficient, code-compliant development in the community.
Plain City Area Development Corporation
In January 2024, Plain City Village Council authorized the creation of the Plain City Area Development Corporation, doing business as the Plain City Economic Development Corporation (PCEDC), to serve as the Village’s designated community improvement corporation. The PCEDC has the authority to apply for and administer grants, purchase and sell real property, and create specialized business programs that support the community’s economic development. The PCEDC is subject to Ohio’s Sunshine Laws and public records requirements.
The PCEDC Board of Director meets at 8:30 AM on the second Wednesday of January, March, July, September, and November at 8:30 AM at the Plain City Municipal Building. Meeting notices and materials are available on the Village's website.
Board of Directors
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Mr. Jim Eudaily, Council Member
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Mrs. Haley Lupton, Administrator
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Mrs. Renee Sonnett, Finance Director
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Mr. Jason Stanford, Development Director
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Mr. Shane Hoffman, Resident
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Mr. Mark Keene, Resident
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Ms. Shelby Powell, Resident
Meet Our Team
Legal Authority
Community Improvement Corporations are authorized under Chapter 1724 of the Ohio Revised Code: “A corporation not for profit may be organized…for the sole purpose of advancing, encouraging and promoting the industrial, economic, commercial and research development of a community or an area."
Services We're Happy to Provide
Site Selection Assistance
We help identify suitable properties based on your specific needs, whether it's access to infrastructure, zoning compatibility, or proximity to workforce and transportation.
Demographic and Economic Data
Our team provides tailored reports on population trends, workforce statistics, consumer spending, and regional market insights to support your business planning or investment decision.
Financial Incentive Packaging
We guide businesses through available local, county, and state incentive programs, including tax abatements, grants, low-interest loans, Tax Increment Financing (TIF), Community Reinvestment Areas (CRA), and Job Creation Tax Credits.
Interagency Coordination
We organize and facilitate meetings with relevant governmental agencies, utility providers, and development partners to help navigate regulations, infrastructure extensions, and project approvals.
Workforce Development Support
We connect businesses to local workforce resources, including schools, training programs, and job placement services, and help develop customized strategies to attract and retain talent.
Permitting and Zoning Assistance
We act as a liaison throughout the permitting process, helping interpret zoning regulations, expedite reviews, and coordinate with building inspectors and plan examiners to keep your project moving forward.
Public Infrastructure Partnerships
For qualifying projects, we may explore options to support public infrastructure improvements such as roads, water/sewer extensions, or broadband access to help make sites development-ready.
Marketing and Promotion
We promote available properties and investment opportunities through regional and state marketing channels, site selection networks, and online media.
Long-Term Partnership
Our commitment doesn't end when the ribbon is cut. We provide ongoing support through business retention visits, issue resolution, and community engagement opportunities to ensure your success over the long term.