Otterman Makes Decision To Leave FHREDI

The board of directors of Florida's Heartland Rural Economic Development Initiative is going to be looking for a new executive director - about a year after conducting a search to replace the previous director.

Jim Otterman has submitted his resignation from FHREDI, effective March 31.

In a statement, Otterman said, "My wife and I are exploring various options right now, which may involve relocation. The FHREDI organization deserves to have leadership in place who can commit to a longer term into the future than I can at this point."

He went on to say, "It has been a rewarding experience to have worked with the people of this region who care about its future, and I wish them much future success."

Otterman said Thursday the job has been "very challenging" but a good position.

"It has got a lot of moving parts that somebody is required to assemble," he said.

As far as projects, Otterman said the rural mobility plan for the region is moving along and a meeting will probably be held in June. He added that a new magazine called Images will debut in April.

Otterman started the job on June 30, 2008. He replaced Lynn Topel, who retired from the position.

Roger Hood, who is the FHREDI board secretary, said Friday that he was surprised to learn that Otterman was leaving the position. Hood added it was a personal situation and he respected the decision.

"It's unfortunate for us," Hood said. "Jim is a very sharp individual. He came in and in the short time he has been here carried on the rapport building. He learned the job quickly."

The board has called a special meeting Monday, March 2 to discuss replacing Otterman. It will be held at 10 a.m. at the Bert J. Harris Jr. Agricultural Center in Sebring.

FHREDI serves a six-county region including Highlands, Hardee, Okeechobee, Glades,

Hendry and DeSoto as well as the communities of Immokalee in Collier County and Belle Glade, South Bay and Pahokee in Palm Beach County.