New Appointments at CEDC

At the end of June, Columbia Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) announced an opening for a new housing development coordinator to replace Chris Brown, who had taken a position with Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress. Yesterday, CEDC announced two new appointments, one of which brings back a familiar name and face to CEDC, someone who retired as president and CEO of CEDC three months ago. The following is quoted from the CEDC press release:

The Columbia Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) is pleased to announce two key appointments that will strengthen the organization's efforts to advance housing and economic opportunities throughout Columbia County.

Effective September 1, 2026, F. Michael Tucker will assume the role of Director of CEDC's Housing Task Force. In this position, Tucker will guide the Task Force's effort to address housing needs across the county, coordinate with state, municipal and community partners, and advance strategies that support the development of attainable and sustainable housing options for residents. Tucker, a former CEO of CEDC, is an attorney with extensive experience in Columbia County development and real estate. . . .

CEDC is also pleased to announce that Rachael Warner, MCP, will join the organization as Economic Development Specialist, effective October 1, 2026.

Warner is an urban planning professional whose experience includes community planning, economic analysis, research, and stakeholder engagement. Most recently, she served as an Associate with BAE Urban Economics and previously held planning and research positions with the Montgomery County Planning Department, the City of Binghamton, and other public-sector organizations. She holds a Master of Community Planning from the University of Maryland and a Bachelor of Arts in Geography from Binghamton University.

In her new role, Warner will support CEDC's housing and economic development programs, assist businesses and municipalities, advance strategic planning initiatives, and help implement projects that promote sustainable economic growth throughout Columbia County. . . .