Jodi Mescher
Meet Jodi Mescher:
Jodi has a Bachelor’s degree in environmental economics and sustainability from Ohio State University. She completed a 2-year Peace Corps assignment in Zambia where she worked as a rural aquaculture extension agent. After returning from Zambia, Jodi moved to Oregon and has since been enjoying the many natural amenities of the Pacific Northwest. She looks forward to living and working in a small coastal community.
Community and Organization:
The City of Lincoln City is a small beach town with a great community and City departments that work collaboratively to achieve shared goals. Located on the scenic Oregon Coast at the 45th parallel, Lincoln City offers seven miles of sandy beaches and many recreation opportunities including water sports, kite flying, clam digging, and hiking. Lincoln City is comprised of six commercial and neighborhood districts primarily along Highway 101, each with unique personality and history. Today, Lincoln City’s economy is largely driven by tourism; while the population remains under 9,000, it can increase to over 30,000 in peak tourism season.
Project:
Lincoln City had not done any formal or traditional economic development prior to the RARE member, Jodi Mescher, joining the team. She served as Economic Development Coordinator for the City of Lincoln City, helping to create a foundation for the future. She worked collaboratively in a supportive and sometimes a lead role on four economic development projects in conjunction with community partners, consultants, and city staff cross-departmentally. These projects included historic preservation, economic development tools, and brownfield redevelopment, and creating plans for two new Urban Renewal Areas.