Heather Otter is joining the Region 9 Economic Development District as their Economic Development Project Manager. Otter currently works with the La Plata Economic Development Alliance as the Program Manager. Otter began her career in public education, has experience as a small business owner and also working in corporate employee development programs. She is a Durango resident and current Board President for Mountain Middle School.

Laura Lewis Marchino, executive director of Region 9, said, “We are thrilled to hire someone with Heather’s interest and experience in economic development. She is already familiar with Region 9 and will be a great fit with Team 9.”

Otter will manage projects, data reports, publications, including District’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy as well as working with county level economic development groups.

“Region 9 helped me and my husband with our first business loan fifteen years ago. I look forward to working with the Region 9 team once again. I’m excited to dive into projects around Southwest Colorado; the place I’m proud to call home,” said Otter.

Region 9 works to enhance economic conditions in La Plata, Archuleta, Montezuma, Dolores & San Juan counties. Otter can be reached after January 15th at heather@scan.org or by calling Region 9 at 970-247-9621.