Mayor Stocks announced today that a resolution regarding the City of Watertown’s membership in the Jefferson County Economic Development Consortium (JCEDC), a regional economic development organization, will be brought before the Finance Committee for consideration and recommendation to the Common Council.

The proposed resolution seeks approval to provide notice for the City to withdraw its membership at the end of the current term; while preserving the opportunity for future participation if the organization evolves in a way that aligns with the City’s long-term goals and priorities. JCEDC is considering its options for reorganization at this time but requires a 6-month notice for an entity to withdraw its membership from the program.

“Regional partnerships are important, and collaboration remains essential to the future success of Watertown,” Mayor Stocks said. “At the same time, we have a responsibility to regularly evaluate how taxpayer dollars are being invested and whether those investments are producing measurable value for our community. The recommendation is about ensuring that Watertown’s investments reflect accountability, alignment with the community’s priorities, and fiscal responsibility.”

The Mayor emphasized that the City will continue to actively pursue regional collaboration and partnerships that support economic growth, workforce development, housing, business expansion, infrastructure investment, and innovation.

The Mayor also noted that the proposed action does not close the door to future participation in the JCEDC.

“If the organization’s future structure, mission, and value proposition evolve in a way that clearly benefits the City of Watertown, we remain open to renewed partnership,” he said.

The Finance Committee is expected to review the resolution at its upcoming meeting before forwarding a recommendation to the Common Council for final consideration.