What’s Next for Warren County’s Economy? Dr. Jamieson Proposes a New Path Forward

At the Warren County Board of Supervisors Work Session on April 22, 2025, Supervisor Dr. Richard Jamieson presented a comprehensive plan titled “Warren County Economic Development: What’s Next?”, aimed at restoring public trust and revitalizing the county’s economic future following years of financial challenges.

Dr. Jamieson laid out a new vision focused on transparency, community input, and long-term sustainability. He explained that instead of returning to a model that places power in the hands of a single authority, Warren County should open up the process of economic development to involve multiple stakeholders through clear, structured steps.

“The goal is not to repeat the past,” Jamieson emphasized. “We lost time, money, and community confidence. It’s time to rebuild using a reliable and public process.”

A New Process for a New Era

Dr. Jamieson’s plan is built around what he calls an Economic Development Process (EDP). This process breaks development into four phases, from idea to implementation. Any citizen, business owner, or organization can take an idea through the steps, starting with a basic concept, market research, group planning, and eventually, investment readiness.

The process is designed to be transparent, meaning that all stakeholders—including elected officials and the public—can follow along and offer input. Each phase includes checkpoints, public updates, and clear criteria to determine whether a project should move forward or be set aside.

According to Jamieson, this approach would also reduce the risks of financial mismanagement and political pressure. “By making the process public, we remove bottlenecks and build credibility,” he said.

Projects with Purpose

To show how the new system could work, Jamieson introduced four “kickstart” project ideas that could be launched with minimal public funding but strong community and private support:

1. Warren County Homesteading Center – A hub for hands-on agricultural education and agritourism, making use of existing interest in homesteading and FFA programs. It could start with a simple gathering space and grow into a regional draw for visitors, students, and local producers.

2. Seasonal Ice Rink and Event Pavilion – A winter attraction that could boost downtown business during slower months. In summer, the rink could serve as a venue for concerts and festivals.

3. Multi-Sport Recreation Complex – A youth sports facility located near Rockland Park. With hotels and restaurants already nearby, it could host regional tournaments and draw new visitors to the area.

   

4. Destination Conference Center – A rural retreat for meetings and workshops just outside the D.C. metro area. Surrounded by local hotels, restaurants, and golf courses, it would offer a peaceful alternative to city-based conference venues.

Each of these ideas would follow the EDP structure, involving working groups, market research, and public feedback to determine if they are worth moving forward.

Why It Matters Now

Dr. Jamieson stressed that after years of legal and financial trouble tied to the former Economic Development Authority (EDA), the county cannot afford to wait any longer. With limited cash but valuable public land and community interest, he said the focus should be on projects that attract private investment and can be advanced without major debt.

“We don’t need to build everything ourselves,” he said. “But we do need to create a path where good ideas can take root and grow—with community support and private backing.”

He also highlighted tourism as the most immediate opportunity. Comparing Warren County to towns like Sedona, Arizona—known for their natural beauty and thriving tourism markets—Jamieson said the county could greatly increase visitor revenue by better promoting its rural charm, small-town feel, and outdoor attractions.

What’s Next?

Dr. Jamieson asked the board to consider supporting a pilot project for the Warren County Homesteading Center, using a small amount of county-owned land and a limited initial investment to test the process and gauge interest.

Board members responded positively, discussing ways to bring the idea to the tourism committee and begin early steps.

“Not every project will work,” Jamieson said. “But we won’t know unless we start. It’s time to plant the seed and let the best ideas grow.”

Click here to watch the April 22, 2025 Warren County Board of Supervisors Work Session.

Dr. Jamieson’s remarks start at 1:56.