Dorchester County Economic Development Director Keasha Haythe served notice that she intends to step down from the position as of March 4.

CAMBRIDGE—In a notice sent to Dorchester County offices earlier this week, Economic Development Director Keasha Haythe served notice that she intends to step down from the position as of March 4.

Ms. Haythe has worked for the Economic Development Department for the past eight years. She started out as the Business Attraction and Retention Manager for EDD, and was promoted to Director on the resignation of Bradly Broadwell in June of 2008. Prior to working in Dorchester County, Ms. Haythe held a position for six years in Queen Anne’s County economic development.

Ms. Haythe inherited the plans for the county’s Business Technology Park and the Eastern Shore Innovation Center (ESIC) from the previous director, but has worked tirelessly to see the completion of the ESIC, which will open officially at the end of this month.

She plans to be launching Zoe Economic Development Group, LLC., a private economic development consulting group available to work with federal, state and local government agencies regarding setting up economic development goals and priorities, as well as assist businesses with financial resources that are available throughout the state of Maryland.

“My resignation does not affect my role as President as Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA),” said MS. Haythe, “therefore, I will continue to serve as President of our state economic development association and I was recently appointed by the governor to serve on the Maryland Department of Commerce P3 Marketing Board, based on my economic development experience.

Her decision carries with it a certain amount of rue. “Leaving is bittersweet,” said Ms. Haythe. “I’m excited by the completed ESIC project. I certainly believe there are still more opportunities in Dorchester County, but my task, my goals, have been completed—or will be completed on February 29th, when we have our grand opening of the Innovation Center facility. This is definitely going to help spur economic development in this area.

“I am excited to move forward and have an even bigger voice to continue to push the economic development agenda forward for the Eastern Shore and the entire state of Maryland. This is what I love to do and I will continue to do what I love as the Lord leads me!”