San Marcos, January 23, 2026
The City of San Marcos has appointed Helen Ramirez as the inaugural Director of its new Economic and Local Business Development Department. This move is intended to enhance economic growth, support local businesses, and promote business retention. The department will focus on initiatives like the Main Street project and public-private partnerships, aimed at fostering collaboration and sustainable practices within the community. Ramirez’s extensive experience and commitment to enhancing the local economy have sparked optimism among city officials.
San Marcos Appoints First Director of Economic and Local Business Development
The City of San Marcos has taken a significant step towards enhancing its economic landscape by appointing Helen Ramirez as the first Director of the newly established Economic and Local Business Development Department. This strategic move aims to drive economic growth, support local businesses, and fortify business retention initiatives within the city.
Department’s Mission and Structure
The launch of the Economic and Local Business Development Department reflects the San Marcos City Council’s commitment to reinforcing the economic backbone of the community. The department will oversee vital programs such as the Main Street initiative and Business Retention and Expansion initiatives. Under Ramirez’s direction, the department will focus on business recruitment, retention, expansion, and formulating public-private partnerships that encourage workforce collaboration and incentive strategies aligned with community values, including environmental sustainability.
Leadership Appointment
City Manager Stephanie Reyes has expressed optimism about Ramirez’s leadership, citing her thoughtful approach to economic development and her dedication to fostering local businesses while preserving the unique character of San Marcos. Assistant City Manager Rodney Gonzales also emphasized the importance of this new department and highlighted Ramirez’s extensive experience in economic development and organizational leadership as crucial for shaping the city’s economic strategies.
About Helen Ramirez
Ramirez brings a wealth of knowledge to her new role, holding a bachelor’s degree in city and regional planning from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. She is a Certified Municipal Manager and a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners. Additionally, her fluency in Spanish and background in working with diverse communities equip her to engage with various stakeholders effectively. Ramirez is set to commence her position on February 16, 2026.
Background Context
San Marcos, located along the Interstate 35 corridor between Austin and San Antonio, serves as the county seat of Hays County. With a population of approximately 67,553 as per the 2020 census and being home to Texas State University, the city is ideally positioned for economic growth. The establishment of the Economic and Local Business Development Department signifies a proactive stance towards nurturing economic vitality and supporting the local entrepreneurial spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who has been appointed as the first Director of the Economic and Local Business Development Department in San Marcos?
The City of San Marcos has appointed Helen Ramirez as the inaugural Director of the Economic and Local Business Development Department.
What is the mission of the Economic and Local Business Development Department in San Marcos?
The department aims to bolster economic growth, support business retention, and foster local business development within the city.
What programs will the Economic and Local Business Development Department oversee?
The department will oversee key programs, including the Main Street and Business Retention and Expansion initiatives.
What are some of the responsibilities of the new department’s director?
The director will lead efforts in business recruitment, retention, expansion, public-private partnerships, workforce collaboration, and incentive strategies that align with community values, including environmental protections.
What is known about Helen Ramirez’s professional background?
Ramirez holds a bachelor’s degree in city and regional planning from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. She is a Certified Municipal Manager and a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners. Fluent in Spanish, Ramirez has a background that includes work with diverse communities and regional partners. She is scheduled to begin her role with the City on February 16, 2026.
Key Features of the Economic and Local Business Development Department
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Department Name | Economic and Local Business Development Department |
| Director | Helen Ramirez |
| Mission | To bolster economic growth, support business retention, and foster local business development within San Marcos. |
| Key Programs | Main Street and Business Retention and Expansion initiatives |
| Director’s Responsibilities | Lead efforts in business recruitment, retention, expansion, public-private partnerships, workforce collaboration, and incentive strategies aligned with community values, including environmental protections. |
| Director’s Start Date | February 16, 2026 |
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