Pasco EDC Announces First-Ever Leadership Award Recipient the Late Don Porter

August 24, 2017

Porter’s vision for Wiregrass Ranch helped shape one of the fastest growing areas in Pasco County and the State of Florida

PASCO COUNTY, FLORIDA (August 24, 2017) —  The Pasco EDC Leadership Award celebrates a person in Economic Development, who has had a remarkable impact on Pasco County and our community. The late James “Don” Porter and his vision for Wiregrass Ranch in Wesley Chapel, helped shape one of the fastest growing areas in Pasco County and the State of Florida. Porter’s passion and strong will served him well as he led the convening of county stakeholders in creating a world-class master planned development.

“No one can deny Don’s passion for what he did. He took his family’s property and poured his heart and soul into developing something bigger than just another master-planned community,” said Bill Cronin, President/CEO Pasco EDC. “Don planned out every detail and wouldn’t sell if it wasn’t what he saw fit for the property. He knew exactly what he wanted to see go up from residential and hospitals, to colleges and tourist attractions.”

Friends and family describe Don as a true visionary, who didn’t take no for an answer. He was not a property developer to make quick money, but rather to create a fully functioning community for people to live, work and play. He spent countless hours on the phone and in meetings with county officials as he developed Wiregrass Ranch.

The Wiregrass Ranch community features numerous residential options, a middle and high school, a state college, the Shops at Wiregrass, and is the home to a future sports complex. You can still see evidence of Don’s work and vision around Wiregrass Ranch today. The Pasco EDC is proud to honor Porter, for his unparalleled leadership and commitment to the economic development of Pasco County.

Pasco EDC's Annual Awards & Trade Show is regarded as Pasco County's premier business event, attracting over 600 business and community leaders in Tampa Bay and Pasco County, including State legislators, county commissioners and city officials.  Reserve your spot today at: http://pascoedc.com/events/details/pasco-edc-annual-awards-tradeshow.

#          #          #

About Pasco Economic Development Council
The Pasco Economic Development Council is committed to developing Florida's most competitive climate for business growth by providing businesses, that seek to start, move, or grow in the North Tampa Bay area, a comprehensive suite of programs that can help them to reach their full economic potential.  Since 1987, Pasco EDC has fostered a strong partnership funded by corporate and public investors focused on the economic vitality of Pasco County.  Discover more at www.pascoedc.com.