Bill Colvin, assistant director and coordinator of community and economic development programs at the Bennington County Regional Commission, will be elevated to executive director of the organization in the coming weeks. He will succeed Jim Sullivan, who is retiring after 30-plus years at the BCRC.
Colvin was hired by the commission 10 years ago to launch an economic development initiative for the region’s 17 communities. Under his direction, that effort has grown and diversified, leading to partnerships with economic-development interests locally and across southern Vermont.
The BCRC is one of 11 regional planning commissions in Vermont and one of only two to serve as the regional-development corporation as well. The commission is governed by appointed representatives from each member town and village, together with commissioners representing interest groups such as economic development, public health, energy, housing, and transportation.
Outgoing executive director Sullivan, expressed confidence in Colvin’s ability to direct the commission going forward.
“Bill has been instrumental in helping to shape the BCRC as a key resource for local governments, businesses and residents of the region,” Sullivan said. “His deep knowledge of the area and the relationships he has developed over his years of community service make him the ideal person to work with our outstanding staff, commissioners and community leaders to advance a shared goal of improving the region’s economy and the quality of life for all residents.”