OREGON — The Ogle County Economic Development Corporation will be seeking a new executive director as Charlene Coulombe will transition out of the role and into retirement, a Jan. 29 press release said. Coulombe has served in the position since January 2024.

The press release is as follows:

“The 12 County EDC will be celebrating their first year in operation in February 2025. The past twelve months we have hit the ground running. Private and government officials have partnered together to grow the foundation of the corporation and expand regionalism throughout Ogle County.  The Village of Creston, Rochelle and (Lee County or Northern Illinois) are a few who have been added to the corporation. Sterling Federal Bank, Manheim solutions, Harvard Bank, Comcast, and Fehr Grahm have also joined the team. Great things are achieved when teams are formed by exceptional people and organizations.

In January of 2024, Charlene Coulombe, EDFP CEcD, was hired as the executive director and signed a 12-month contract in February 2024. The goal was to assist the corporation in setting the stage for the years ahead. 

“I worked 50-60 hours a week for as long as I was in this field,” Coulombe said. “I was not sure how long I would last ‘unretired,’ but I knew Ogle County deserved a jump start. After all, they were surrounded by so many successful communities, it was time to share the beauty and possibilities of the region. Ogle County has indeed been one of the most picturesque counties I have ever had the pleasure to serve. I believe the foundation has been set for the OCEDC and great things are coming. I think it is time for the organization to focus on their future goals as I migrate back into retirement. I will continue to serve the organization as they plan the next phase of their development plan.”

We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition and are taking steps to implement a comprehensive transition plan. Our priority will be to maintain the continuity of operations 

and the mission of Ogle County Economic Development Corporation throughout this process. We have already begun discussions to determine the next steps for leadership, including the search for a new executive director, and we will keep the board informed at each stage.

We extend our sincere thanks to Charlene for her dedication and service to the organization and wish her the very best in her future endeavors.

Our board of directors is a great team full of talent, passion, and creativity, and we have no doubt that we’ll achieve amazing things together. We look forward to continuing to work closely with everyone to ensure the continued success, and bright future of Ogle County and of the Ogle County Economic Development Corporation.”