Twin Falls Economic Director Leaving for Oregon

The City of Twin Falls issued the following statement:

Melinda Anderson, City of Twin Falls Economic Development Director and Executive Director of the Twin Falls Urban Renewal Agency's Board of Directors, announced today that she will be leaving the City of Twin Falls to accept a position as the Economic Development Director of the City of Tualatin, Oregon.

Anderson served the City and Urban Renewal Agency for nine years after moving to Twin Falls from Coos Bay, Oregon, She played a critical role in attracting employers that include Chobani, Clif Bar & Co., and C3 Connect. She also led efforts to assist Glanbia in repurposing a blighted section of Downtown Twin Falls into the cheese producer’s new headquarters and modern innovation center, which represented the single-largest private investment in downtown. Most recently, Anderson has been on the forefront of coordinating the redesign of Main Avenue and development of the future Downtown Commons.

In addition to her local economic development and downtown revitalization activities, Anderson also assisted in championing economic development on the state and regional level. She has served on the Southern Idaho Economic Development Organization (SIEDO), Idaho Economic Development Association (IEDA), and was the founder and long-time member of Redevelopment Association of Idaho (RAI). Anderson recently completed an 18-month term as RAI’s president.

“Melinda has played a pivotal role in economic development in our community and in the State of Idaho, and her contributions is evident in our economic development successes despite a significant and prolonged downturn in the national economy during her tenure.” said Travis Rothweiler, Twin Falls City Manager. “We will miss Melinda as a member of our team and the expertise the she has brought to our community and region.”

The City does not expect to fill Anderson’s position immediately. Rather, the organization will review the functions of both the City Economic Development Director and Executive Director of the Twin Falls Urban Renewal Agency. Until the position is filled, Rothweiler will those roles and responsibilities with the assistance of other City staff.

“I will sincerely miss this community and the many people who have helped make economic development a success,” Anderson said. “However, I am excited for the next chapter in my career and to return home and be closer to family.”

Anderson’s last day will be December 15.