Hemmer Resigns As Columbia's Economic Development Director

Mike Hemmer

During a week filled with daily news reports involving the Columbia City Council’s struggle to come to an agreement regarding the future of the Columbia Crossing development, the town’s Economic and Community Development Director Mike Hemmer submitted his resignation Wednesday afternoon. His last day will be July 27. Hemmer has accepted a position at PGAV Urban Consulting, a contract planning and economic development firm headquartered in St. Louis.

“I will be a senior project manager,” said Hemmer.

His main duty will involve working on Missouri Governor Matt Blunt’s DREAM Initiative, which was rolled out earlier this year. The Downtown Revitalization and Economic Assistance program gives selected Missouri communities an opportunity to revitalize their downtown areas.

“It was a good offer for me that came at a time when things are changing in Columbia. I now will have a good opportunity to work with communities that are excited about their growth,” said Hemmer.

Hemmer, along with his wife, Heather, and their children, Noah, Derek, Olivia and Alex, will continue residing in Columbia.

“I am looking forward to continue attending Columbia city council meetings and being involved with the Monroe Actors State Company,” said Hemmer.

Hemmer was hired in August 1997 by then Mayor Lester Schneider as the city’s first full-time economic development coordinator. During the past 10 years, Hemmer assisted in bringing numerous businesses to Columbia, securing more than $4 million in grants and working with local organizations start several community oriented projects including the Trolley Tour and Music At Metter

“I really worked hard to improve the general atmosphere of the community of Columbia,” said Hemmer.

Current Mayor Kevin Hutchinson was also a big supporter of Hemmer. “We wish Mike the best of luck in his new endeavor. He was a huge asset to our economic team."