2010 Annual Report
Introduction to the Lansdowne Economic Development Corporation: The Basics
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The Lansdowne Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit that has served the Borough of Lansdowne since 1998. The LEDC has led the effort to strengthen existing Lansdowne businesses and to attract a strategic mix of new businesses to Lansdowne.
In 2005, the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development selected the LEDC to oversee a new Main Street Program. The Main Street program is a national project of the National Trust of Historic Preservation. The Main Street platform is based on creating a comprehensive design for the downtown, promoting the community and businesses, encouraging economic restructuring through programs and events, and maintaining a sustainable organization.
Organizational Structure: the LEDC Board, Staff and Volunteers
The LEDC Board is comprised of local business owners, professionals, and representatives from the Borough of Lansdowne. Board members dedicate time and resources to the LEDC. In 2010, Board donations (including volunteer hours) were valued at approximately $60,000. The LEDC conducts its activities through four Board-led committees that align with the Main Street platform: Economic Restructuring, Design, Organization and Promotion.
A full-time Main Street Manager complements the talents of the Board and supports committee work. The Main Street Manager is responsible for maintaining relationships with the Borough government and other organizations and coordinates the LEDC’s projects and programs.
Dedicated volunteers form the backbone of the organization. According to the Pennsylvania Downtown Center, in 2009 the LEDC has the second-greatest number of volunteer hours for any Main Street Organization (Pennsylvania Downtown Center Top Performing Main/Elm Streets, 2010)
The mission of the LEDC is to support, encourage, and promote sustainable economic growth in the Borough of Lansdowne through focused community and economic development activities.
The LEDC envisions Lansdowne as a regional destination with a historic, walkable downtown, a thriving mix of businesses, and a vibrant arts and culture community.