Cathedral City announces new Economic Development Director

On Wednesday, Cathedral City officials announced Stone James will take over as the city’s new Economic Development Director.

This announcement comes as the current Economic Development Director Curt Watts plans to retire soon.

James, a land acquisition executive officer has over 20 years experience in private management and land investment. He served as the Vice President for Land Advisors Organization for the entire Coachella Valley, Imperial Valley, and Morongo Basin

He is also a current member of the City of Indio’s General Plan Advisory Committee and was a commissioner for the City of Indio’s Planning Commission and Land Use Committee, member of the City of Palm Desert’s Envision Palm Desert 2033 General Plan Update.

James has also served as a Sworn Reserve Deputy, EMT, and Search and Rescue Team Member for the Los Angeles County Sheriff Department, as a Water Rescue & Search and Rescue Team Member for the Spokane County Sheriff, and as a Volunteer Fire Prevention Ranger with the United States Forest Service.

“Mr. James has extensive experience and knowledge in developing residential and commercial properties throughout the Coachella Valley,” stated City Manager Charlie McClendon. “In addition, he has experience working hand-in-hand with the public sector moving small, medium, and large scale projects through various cities’ planning, building, and engineering departments. I look forward to working with him as he brings his vision and experience to promote Cathedral City to developers who are looking for viable locations throughout our city.”

Cathedral City plans to bring in new businesses and continue redevelopment efforts to it’s downtown on East Palm Canyon Dr.

Read: Cathedral City’s downtown redevelopment Read: More Top Stories from KESQ & CBS Local 2 Watch KESQ News Channel 3 & CBS Local 2 Online