Oakland County seeks approval for contract with former director Jean Broad

In a recent meeting of the Economic Development and Infrastructure Committee, Oakland County officials discussed a significant proposal aimed at enhancing the county's economic engagement on a global scale. The committee is seeking authorization to enter into a professional services contract with Jean Broad, a former director with extensive experience in international relations and trade.

Oakland County, which contributes approximately $130 billion to Michigan's GDP, is home to around 700 companies from 34 countries, including a substantial number of top automotive manufacturers. This economic landscape makes the county particularly sensitive to changes in federal trade policies, which have been evolving rapidly. The proposed contract with Broad is intended to help navigate these changes and strengthen the county's economic ties with international partners.

The scope of work outlined in the proposal includes managing memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with countries such as Mexico, Armenia, and Italy, which have similar economic profiles to Oakland County. The county has seen an increase in requests for these agreements, reflecting a growing interest in subnational diplomacy. Additionally, the contract aims to address shifts in export strategies due to personnel changes at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the U.S. Commercial Service.

Broad's appointment is seen as a strategic move to leverage her three decades of experience in international business and her established relationships with key stakeholders. The committee believes her expertise will be invaluable as they work to enhance Oakland County's global economic presence.

As the committee moves forward with this proposal, the outcomes are expected to have a direct impact on local businesses and the broader community, fostering economic growth and stability in an increasingly interconnected world. The next steps will involve further discussions and a vote on the authorization to proceed with the contract.