BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – The City of Bluefield’s Economic Development Director Jim Spencer has announced his retirement, effective April 23.
Spencer, who started with the city in 2015 and has also been the executive director of the Bluefield Economic Development Authority (BEDA) since its creation in 2019, said during today’s City Board meeting that Bluefield is not just a city, it is deeply personal.
“It’s been a privilege to have been here. My parents were educated in Bluefield. My mom went to West Virginia Business College. My dad went to Bluefield State. A lot of my family went to Bluefield State. And to have a hand in recreating some of the things in the downtown, the Intuit, the Alorica, the Omnis Project, others, it’s just an honor to serve the citizens of this area, and I love Bluefield. I went to Bluefield State myself, so I know what it was like many years ago, but I think there’s a new horizon on the verge for Bluefield.”
The Glen Lyn, Va. native said he has worked alongside great people here and praised board members who continue to bring positive change to the city.
Spencer said he is proud of the city’s accomplishments during his tenure, including the Commercialization Station, Food Truck Incubator and other entrepreneurial programs, ongoing development at Exit 1, Intuit/Alorica and planned new development downtown.
“Words will never fully express the love and gratitude I have for this community,” he said. “Bluefield has been such a blessing to me and my family. The Bluefield WV EDA is made up of a fantastic group of board members and staff, and I have no doubt that even greater things are ahead for this city.”
Mayor Ron Martin praised Spencer, saying he has been “awesome” to work with, and City Manager Cecil Marson also pointed out the great work
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