BY JIMMY LAWTONNorth Country This Week

OGDENSBURG — Ogdensburg’s new economic development program manager made her first public appearance before the City Council Monday, outlining plans to begin work on the $10 million in funding awarded to the city for downtown improvements.

Katie Sovie, who recently took over the position, introduced herself to council members and community members while announcing the launch of Ogdensburg’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI).

“Tonight marks an exciting milestone as we officially launch Ogdensburg’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative,” Sovie said. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to shape the future of our downtown.”

Sovie said she will serve as the  city’s primary contact throughout the DRI process and will work with the consultant team, local planning committee and community stakeholders throughout the process.

Calls for proposals

She said potential projects could include creating housing, supporting businesses, revitalizing buildings, improving public spaces and enhancing the city’s waterfront.

The city is seeking input from residents, businesses, property owners and community partners as it develops a shared vision for downtown.

The process will include a call for project proposals beginning July 30 at noon. 

Businesses, property owners, developers, nonprofits and other organizations will be able to submit projects for consideration through Sept. 8 at noon.

Sovie said submitting a project does not guarantee funding, but it is the first step toward being considered for inclusion in the final strategic investment plan.

The city’s local planning committee will review the proposals and determine which projects best align with the community’s goals and the objectives of the DRI program.

She said the planning process will continue through the fall, with public outreach, project evaluations and additional community input before a final strategic investment plan is developed.

Sovie also encouraged council members to help promote the initiative and connect with residents, businesses and property owners who may have ideas for downtown improvements.

“The more voices we engage, the stronger our plan will be and the better positioned we’ll be to make the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” she said.

Sovie was hired after former Economic Developer Tyler Park quietly resigned from the position earlier this year.

Past experience

Sovie comes to the city after more than six years with Pursuit, where she most recently served as a business advisory associate, according to information available on her Linkedin profile.

Her background also includes work as a financial representative with Northwestern Mutual and positions at Siena College, including with the Stack Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Ogdensburg is also still without a full-time planner. Since the departure of Andrea Smith, the city has contracted with outside firms to handle planning duties.

Potsdam-based LaBella Associates has handled planning board reviews, variances and meeting support, while Brighton-based MRB Group has provided code expertise, application assistance, staff training and State Environmental Quality Review support.

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