In 1995, the Chester Economic Development Authority (CEDA) was created by the City of Chester to serve as the administrative agent for the City’s economic, housing, and community development programs and activities. In this capacity, the Authority is engaged in an ongoing effort to promote business growth, attract new investment, and develop Chester as a safe, livable, sustainable community.
Through a Cooperation Agreement with the City, the Authority manages several federal programs including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, HOME Investments Partnership (HOME) program and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program. Decisions on the use of these funds are made by City Council with the Authority handling the program and/or project management. Details on the actual programs and activities carried out with these funds are provided in the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) submitted to HUD on an annual basis.
In addition, CEDA assists the City in the application for and administration of project specific funding requests to federal agencies and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Darrell Jones - Chairperson |
Francis Whittington - Vice Chairperson |
Rasheedah Myers-Lee - Secretary |
Desmond Irving - Treasurer |
James Harper, Jr. |
Nasir Leach |
Bonita Taylor |
Main Number - Information | 610-447-7850 | |
Lisa Gaffney | Executive Director | 610-447-7861 |
Jo Ann Ruark | Director of Community Development | 610-447-7854 |
Kenneth J. Di Pietro | Financial Controller | 610-447-7855 |
The Chester Redevelopment Authority was established in 2000 under the Pennsylvania State Redevelopment Law. CRA works with CEDA and the City in the administration of redevelopment activities, including but not limited to, the acquisition of real estate for the assemblage of developable sites, negotiation of redeveloper agreements, and disposition of real estate for new developments. CRA also has the power of eminent domain. CEDA staff provide administrative services to CRA through the terms of a Management Agreement.
John Neal - Chairperson |
Sam Williams - Treasurer |
Eugene Alliston |
Janell Brown |
Rev. Dr. William "Rocky" Brown |
James Turner |