As director of strategic initiatives and policy for the Jefferson Economic Development Commission (JEDCO) Annalisa Kelly plays an integral role in many of the organization’s most impactful projects. Just a few of her recent contributions have included: leading the effort to secure a $600,000 grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to revitalize potential Brownfield sites on the West Bank; overseeing the development of a study to help encourage zoning changes in Jefferson Parish to attract more local breweries, distilleries and taprooms; and overseeing the development of the Churchill Park Master Plan, a comprehensive vision for 480 acres of publicly and privately owned land in Jefferson Parish.
According to Kelly, her role at JEDCO — which was created to fit her skills and passions — combines her longtime love of public service and passion for working with nonprofits and local government. In addition to serving as JEDCO’s in-house opportunity zone program expert, Kelly led the development of the parish’s “Back to Business” plan, created to help local businesses deal with the effects of the pandemic.
“The variety, but also the meaning and the impact behind these JEDCO projects is what really drives me,” said Kelly. “I love working in a sphere where I actually can make an impact and work with partners.”
Among Kelly’s current projects is the Seafood Enterprise Assistance Fund, a revolving loan fund for the seafood industry, which represents one out of every 70 jobs in Louisiana. She is also heavily involved in major projects and initiatives to improve public transit for Jefferson Parish residents and enhance access to broadband.
