County Economic Cabinet named

Hamilton County Commissioners on Monday announced the members of a new organization aimed at spurring economic development. And some influential names are on the list. The nine-member Cabinet of Economic Advisors will explore ways to increase the amount of tax revenue being generated in the financially-strapped county. It replaces the Economic Development Task Force.

Commissioner Todd Portune was particularly impressed by not only the talent, but the diversity of the group.

"Its a nine member body and includes four women and four African Americans," he said. It also includes a diverse set of skills and expertise.

All the members were appointed by Portune and County Commissioner David Pepper. Commissioner Pat DeWine, the lone Republican, was also asked for nominations but only submitted one name -- someone who has campaigned against the jail sales tax increase -- and the name was rejected by the other two.

Members are: Robert Richardson (President of AFL-CIO Labor Council), Steve Johns (Director of Citizens for Civic Renewal), Ellen van der Horst (Director of the Greater Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce), Jeanie Golliher (Director of Cincinnati Development Fund), Pete Blackshaw (CMO at Nielsen BuzzMetrics), Morris Williams (Hamilton County Community Reinvestment Group), Rev. Jim Vickers, Janet Reid (President, Global Lead Management), and Margaret Wyant (founder of Isabella Capital LLC). Rob Portman (Former. U.S. Trade Representative) will provide counsel to Cabinet.