Karen Lemmons chats with Tarpon Springs Mayor David Archie in his office recently. Lemmons is the city’s new economic development manager. Her last job was community development director in Machesney Park, Ill.
By Demorris A. Lee, Times Correspondent
Demorris A. LeeTampa Bay Times In Print: Saturday, February 4, 2012
TARPON SPRINGS — Karen Lemmons is in full learning mode.
On her desk in a corner office at City Hall are brochures and pamphlets that detail the demographics of Pinellas County and the Tampa Bay area. She's walking the streets, shaking hands and listening to business owners' concerns about how best to spur economic growth in this city of 24,000.
She's meeting with each city commissioner to hear their goals for the city. Thursday she attended a Chamber of Commerce meeting and sat down with Mayor David Archie.
"A big job now is to learn as much as I can about Tarpon Springs," said Lemmons, 51. "Before I can formulate a strategy, I need a good foundation."
Two weeks ago, Lemmons moved from Machesney Park, Ill., to Tarpon Springs for the job of city economic development manager. Lemmons, who will earn about $75,000 a year, is responsible for bringing new business to Tarpon and ensuring that the ones already in town thrive and stay.
Read more
Love bugs will be invading the Sponge Docks on Saturday, but you won't need to head to the car wash.
These love bugs have wheels, not wings. They are actually Volkswagen Beetles.
The 2nd Annual Tarpon Springs Love Bug Show will be held Saturday, Feb. 18 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Sponge Docks on Dodecanese Blvd.
Cash donations will be accepted to help the Tarpon Springs Boys & Girls Club and canned food items will go to The Shepherd Center.
For more information contact Chris thelocalvolks@yahoo.com or 727-244-5325
