Blanding City’s Economic Development director Pratt Redd took five questions from us this week.
Pratt Grew up in Blanding, graduated from San Juan High then continued his education in Cedar City majoring in marketing at SUU with a minor in economics. After getting his degree in 2013 Pratt was hired into the marketing department at Brian Head Ski Resort. He has over 7 years of professional marketing experience under his belt building websites, managing social media accounts and working in public relations. His free time is spent with his family enjoying what San Juan County has to offer in places like Valley of the Gods, Recapture Pocket and the Dude Ranch on Blue Mountain. Here are Pratt’s answers to the 5 questions we have posed to him regarding Economic Development in his part of San Juan County.
Since you have been in your position what are the most beneficial changes you have seen come to the area?
The single most beneficial change to the area has been the investment in the healthcare industry. The development and construction of Blue Mountain Hospital, San Juan Clinic in Blanding and the new UNHS buildings in the county have brought in 100’s of jobs, and brought in years of construction works as well. Healthcare jobs bring in sustainable growth that benefits the region, not just the community.
What businesses would you like to see come to San Juan County and in particular Blanding?
Additional USU enrollment. Blanding Campus has Increased their reach and staff, and I would like to see the university grow more and more over the next 10 years. Every town that grows tends to have a successful education system to support the growth.
Why should someone starting a business come to San Juan County and to Blanding in particular?
Get in before the secret is out. Growth is attainable, and inevitable in my opinion. As work-from-home jobs increase, people are going to look to live in more affordable locations, near family, and in places that offer first-class outdoor recreation opportunities.
Being on the board for the Rural Community Grant Program in San Juan County, what impact do you see that board making on the county?
Getting funding to the businesses that need it, and will make the most the funds coming out of the state to the county level. I think the county as a whole will see businesses grow each year, as well as attract new business that wants to expand to the area.
What have been your biggest challenges in bringing Economic Development to Blanding?
Developing trust within the business community. It’s a new position that is always evolving and growing. As people have good experiences with myself and the county economic development office, trust will continue to increase benefit Blanding businesses.