Name: David Leezer, CEcD, FM

Position: Assistant City Manager, Economic Development

Organization: City of Hazelwood, MO

Years In Economic Development: 40

Years As A Member of IEDC: 25

What is a podcast or book you recommend?

Second Act Stories from Andy Levine

Why did you choose to join IEDC?

Networking, Learning from Others, Benefitting from the ideas of other professionals.

How has being a member of IEDC benefitted you and/or your organization?

The networking has allowed me to discuss a number of ideas and issues to better formulate my programs.  Benjamin Franklin once said, "Originality is the art of concealing your sources."  I get a lot of source material from the IEDC community.

What IEDC event do you look forward to attending each year? Why?

Annual Meeting

Is there a project your organization is currently working on that you are excited about?

Redeployment of a vacant mall into an industrial/commercial development.

How has your organization adapted to support your community and/or clients during the pandemic?

Focused on re-investment for retention.

What is something you and/or your organization have accomplished this year that you are most proud of?

While working for the Wichita Falls (TX) Chamber of Commerce...I was part of a team that developed an innovative remote worker incentive.  Our team created an entirely new outreach effort that put Wichita Falls on the map.

Coffee or Tea?

Hard Question...I am addicted to both coffee and instant tea.  

Audio Book or Podcast?

Audio Book

Favorite Movie?

Patton

Favorite Book?
Atlas Shrugged - I've read it 7 times.  

Night out or Night In?

Night In

Dress-shoes or Sneakers?

Sneakers

What is something you like to do in your free time?

Getting in shape at Orange Theory Fitness. Every Sunday, I go to a coffee shop for 3-4 hours and read.  Attending my LCMS Church.