Cornell Wesley has been appointed as the new executive director of Prosper Portland, the city’s economic development agency. Wesley, who previously served as a high-ranking economic development official in Birmingham, Alabama, is set to take on this leadership role in Portland during a period of significant challenges following a turbulent budget season and the resignation of the interim executive director due to internal conflicts.
The Prosper Portland Board of Commissioners is poised to hold a public vote regarding Wesley’s appointment on July 9, with plans for him to begin his new role in August if approved.
In a conversation with The Oregonian/OregonLive, Wesley expressed his enthusiasm for the new position, emphasizing the importance of the work he will be undertaking. He stated, “Broadly speaking, we’re always excited about new challenges and new opportunities to be impactful. I have a heart for this line of work.”
Wesley has gained recognition for his role as the director of the Birmingham Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity, where he had oversight of a small team focused on business retention and real estate management, objectives that closely align with the mission of Prosper Portland.
Mayor Keith Wilson, along with Prosper leadership, announced Wesley’s selection, underscoring the confidence in his ability to guide the agency at this crucial time. Wilson remarked, “I am looking forward to beginning working with Cornell. I am confident that he brings the expertise and insight that Portland needs in this moment. Working together, we can revitalize our economy and realize an economic renaissance for Portland.”
With a diverse background that includes experience in the private and public sectors, Wesley has previously worked in banking and for the Economic Development Administration, under the U.S. Department of Commerce. As the former director of Birmingham’s economic opportunity initiatives, he has developed a wealth of knowledge applicable to his new role in Portland.
Prosper Board Chair Gustavo Cruz echoed similar sentiments, stating, “We are delighted to have Cornell join Prosper Portland, and are excited about the energy, vision, and experience he will bring to the agency and our city. I am confident that he will continue to build on the momentum we’re seeing on projects throughout the city.”
Wesley’s hiring comes at a critical juncture for Prosper Portland, particularly in light of a recent proposal by City Council members Mitch Green and Jamie Dunphy that threatened to strip the agency of an $11 million budget allocation. The proposal prompted a public outcry from Prosper staff, who expressed their concerns through internal communication channels.
The backlash against the proposal ultimately contributed to the departure of interim Executive Director Shea Flaherty Betin, who left with a severance package valued at $213,000. Shortly after Flaherty Betin’s resignation, the board appointed agency veteran Lisa Abuaf as the interim executive director while they sought a permanent successor.
In his official statement welcoming his new role, Wesley said, “I am thrilled to be joining Prosper Portland at such a pivotal time for the city. I look forward to working alongside such a dedicated team of leaders and staff who are absolutely committed to realizing inclusive economic growth for all Portlanders.”
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