The Economic Development Officer And Planner: Friend or Foe

Abstract

There has been constant conflict between an economic development officer (EDO) and a planner within municipalities, which is counterproductive to the delivery of their services. The article provides an in-depth analysis of the relationship between them to foster more efficient cooperation by identifying the cause of the conflicts. The conflict between the two positions arises from environmental factors like the reporting relationship in the organization, the job, the responsibilities and the political influences that impact them. Two case studies are then introduced to demonstrate how the stated factors create conflicts, providing practice examples from which recommendations are drawn on how to foster cooperation. The recommendations are centered on reducing differences in organizational responsibilities, professional and job priorities, and the corporate and departmental goals. A chief administrative officer position should be created, and the individual should have authority over both the planner and EDO. There must be a corporate strategic plan for the municipality with clear and open lines of communication between the EDO and the planner.