BY JIMMY LAWTONNorth Country This Week

OGDENSBURG — Ogdensburg’s economic developer, Tyler Park, has quietly resigned from the position, leaving the city once again searching for leadership to guide local economic growth. 

In an email responding to questions about when and why Park left, City Manager Fonda Chronis said only that he “has a new opportunity” and that the city hoped to fill the position.

He did not provide a date for Park’s resignation.

Park, who had been hired last summer with a salary of $60,382, moved to Ogdensburg from Troy and brought a background in workforce development and human resources. 

During his short tenure, he held community meetings and helped with the preparation of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant  application. 

The DRI is a highly competitive grant program run by the state that can allow municipalities to secure $10 million to breathe new life into downtown neighborhoods.

The city has been attempting, unsuccessfully, to secure funding, which could be a huge boon to the city’s waterfront development. Despite what have appeared to be some solid plans on paper, the state has not been receptive to the proposals. Meanwhile, neighboring communities Massena and Potsdam received the awards in 2021 and 2019, respectively.

Despite Park’s departure, the city remains committed to economic development. 

A job posting issued last month highlights the role’s focus on attracting investment, growing businesses, and leading efforts to revitalize the city’s downtown and waterfront. 

The posting emphasizes collaboration with elected officials and the city manager, strategic planning for job creation and investment, and engagement with developers and business owners.

The position offers a competitive salary range of $57,966 to $78,192, plus a benefits package including platinum-level health insurance, generous vacation and paid time off, and participation in the New York State Retirement System. 

The city is seeking a candidate with experience in economic development, urban planning, or business recruitment, strong knowledge of grant programs and incentives, and excellent communication skills.

Ogdensburg is also still without a full-time planner. 

After longtime employee Andrea Smith left last year, the city contracted with outside firms to cover those duties.

 Potsdam-based LaBella Associates has handled planning board reviews, variances, and meeting support, while Brighton-based MRB Group has provided code expertise, application assistance, staff training, and State Environmental Quality Review support.

Chronis has continued to emphasize the importance of strategic investment for the city’s future, saying earlier this year that Ogdensburg must sell assets, expand its tax base, and grow its economy.

Those interested in the economic developer position can view the full job description and minimum qualifications at www.ogdensburg.org or contact City Clerk Cathy Jock at cjock@ogdensburg.org or 315-393-3540.

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