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Jason Bettlach Named CEO of Scott County Economic Development Agency

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. of-scott-county-economic-development-agency.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 23:26 GMT by Quad-City Times
      Locales: Iowa, Illinois, UNITED STATES

ALTON, IL - February 24, 2026 - The Scott County Economic Development Agency (SCEDA) today announced the promotion of Jason Bettlach to Chief Executive Officer, effective March 1, 2026. The appointment marks a significant transition for the agency as Bettlach takes the reins from outgoing CEO Brett Upmeyer, who revealed his plans to step down earlier in January.

Bettlach's ascent to CEO isn't simply a change in title; it's a continuation of a proven track record and a deep understanding of the unique economic landscape of Scott County. For the past several years, Bettlach has served as SCEDA's Director of Business Development, gaining invaluable experience in attracting investment, fostering growth within existing businesses, and navigating the complexities of regional economic development.

"Jason's deep knowledge of Scott County and his track record of success with SCEDA made him the ideal candidate for CEO," stated Gary Sebert, Chairman of the SCEDA Board, in a released statement. "We were fortunate to have a strong internal candidate who is already intimately familiar with our strategic goals and community partnerships."

This internal promotion signals a strategic move by the SCEDA board, emphasizing a commitment to stability and continuity during a period of significant economic change. The economic development landscape is shifting rapidly, with factors like reshoring, supply chain resilience, and the rise of remote work all impacting regional economies. Bettlach's existing relationship with local stakeholders - businesses, government officials, and community leaders - positions him well to address these challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Scott County's Economic Outlook

Scott County, nestled along the Mississippi River, has traditionally relied on a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation. However, recent years have seen a growing emphasis on diversifying the economy and attracting higher-paying jobs. SCEDA has played a vital role in this transition, focusing on sectors like advanced manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. The agency has actively worked to improve infrastructure, streamline permitting processes, and offer incentive packages to attract new businesses.

Bettlach's vision for SCEDA will likely build upon these existing strengths. He is expected to prioritize initiatives that foster innovation, workforce development, and entrepreneurship. Addressing the skilled labor gap is a critical component of future economic growth, and SCEDA is anticipated to expand its partnerships with local educational institutions to create training programs aligned with the needs of employers. This could include apprenticeships, vocational training, and programs designed to attract and retain talent within the county.

Challenges and Opportunities

While Scott County possesses numerous economic advantages, it also faces challenges common to many rural and mid-sized communities. Maintaining a competitive business environment in the face of rising costs and global competition requires ongoing effort. Attracting and retaining a skilled workforce, particularly in specialized fields, is another key hurdle. Furthermore, the impact of automation and artificial intelligence on the local job market must be carefully considered and mitigated through proactive workforce development strategies.

However, Scott County's location offers significant logistical advantages. Its proximity to major transportation hubs - including river, rail, and highway networks - makes it an attractive location for distribution and logistics operations. The area's affordable cost of living and quality of life also contribute to its appeal. Bettlach will likely focus on leveraging these strengths to attract businesses seeking to relocate or expand their operations.

Looking Ahead

As SCEDA embarks on this new chapter under Bettlach's leadership, stakeholders are optimistic about the future. The agency is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the economic destiny of Scott County, creating opportunities for residents, and fostering a vibrant and sustainable community. Bettlach's promotion signifies a commitment to local expertise and a long-term vision for economic prosperity. The coming months will be pivotal as he outlines his strategic priorities and engages with the community to build a brighter future for Scott County. The SCEDA board is confident that Bettlach's leadership will ensure the agency continues to thrive and contribute to the economic well-being of the region. The agency will host a public forum in April to introduce Bettlach and outline his initial plans.