THE INDEPENDENT NEWS
VIRGINIA BEACH — Taylor Adams, a deputy city manager who has led economic development efforts for Virginia Beach, will soon lead an economic development authority in Nevada.
Adams in late May was announced as the incoming CEO of the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada, according to The Reno Gazette Journal.
Adams first joined city government in Virginia Beach in 2015 as purchasing agent following previous work in the public and private sector, according to a biography, including service as the chief administrative officer and director of finance in Starkville, Mississippi. Here, he has worked on a number of major projects, including redevelopment of the Dome site and promoting opportunities for wind energy business.
“Probably the most important thing I can say at this point is thank you,” Adams said during remarks at City Hall, expressing gratitude for all the councils and managers he has served, including City Manager Patrick Duhaney, and for the opportunity to rebuild the economic development department.
“Mayor, like you say, nobody does these things alone,” Adams continued. “That’s absolutely true. There’s nothing that my teams have done here without a ton of work from a ton of people to whom I will forever be grateful.”
Adams was honored on Tuesday, June 6, during the City Council meeting at City Hall. Mayor Bobby Dyer read a proclamation about Adams’ service.
Dyer called the departure a “bittersweet moment.”
“Bittersweet indeed is the word for sure,” City Councilmember Worth Remick, who works in commercial real estate, said a moment later.
“I’ve worked with a lot of economic development directors and officers around the region,” Remick said. “He is one of the best, if not the best. He has represented our city well.”
City Councilmember Michael Berlucchi credited Adams for his skill at attracting jobs and placing the city in a position to have continued success. He also credited Adams for helping all people in the city, including those who are underserved.
City Councilmember Dr. Amelia Ross-Hammond said Adams was family-oriented and believes in diversity and equity.
“Whatever was brought forth to you, you were there to help,” she said.
“You have given us 300 percent,” Vice Mayor Rosemary Wilson said during the meeting. “Maybe more.”
“Our loss is certainly going to be Nevada’s gain,” City Councilmember Barbara Henley said.
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