The Development Corporation of Abilene historically has had an image problem, something that Misty Mayo, its president and CEO, and Jack Rich, its board president, understand.
They also are quick to say they want to change that perception, while admitting that the complexity and – at times – secrecy required to brew economic development deals can appear akin to spycraft with its endless code names.
“It's hard to break through and to make those things clear, especially in today's world where there's so many ways to communicate,” Rich said. That can be a source of misinformation as much as accurate reports.
“But that's what the goal is, that's what we're trying to do is to coordinate all of those efforts," he said.