GRANT COUNTY
Moves Ideas Forward
Our Mission
to promote a vibrant, sustainable economy that attracts and empowers business growth and innovation in Grant County
Our Vision
to serve as champions of collaboration and opportunity, leading the charge to make Grant County one of the best places to live, learn, and work
“near $3 billion invested”
The Growth Council drives progress that supports families, strengthens businesses, and expands opportunity for all. In the past year alone, our efforts have helped attract nearly $3 billion in investment to Grant County.
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Executive Director
With more than 40 years of experience in local government, utilities, and economic development, Chuck Binkerd brings deep expertise and strong community relationships to his role as Executive Director of the Grant County Economic Growth Council.
Chuck previously served as Executive Director of Marion Utilities for 13 years, following leadership roles with Peru Utilities and the Grissom Redevelopment Authority. He has also served more than a decade on the Growth Council’s Board of Directors and over 20 years on the Marion Community Revitalization Enhancement District Board.
Known for his passion for people and partnerships, Chuck sees the Growth Council as a hub for connection—supporting existing businesses, attracting new opportunities, and helping residents thrive. He is committed to ensuring the organization is well-funded, forward-thinking, and always focused on building a stronger, more vibrant Grant County.
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Program Coordinator
Madison (Madi) hit the ground running with the Growth Council in July 2025. With a background in project management, marketing, and nonprofit service—as well as deep hometown roots in Grant County—she’s jumped right in learning more about the organization, collaborating with community leaders, and supporting the Growth Council’s mission to strengthen and grow our region. Outside of work, Madison enjoys baking, live music, good food, coffee, and spending time with her two cats and favorite humans.
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Marketing Coordinator
Loretta brings creativity, strategy, and a passion for storytelling to the Growth Council team. With experience in communications, marketing, and nonprofit service, she helps craft messages that highlight Grant County’s strengths and opportunities. A strong community advocate, Loretta is dedicated to fostering collaboration, supporting local businesses, and sharing the stories that connect people to place. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, music, and quality time with her husband, pets, and close friends.
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Olivia joins the Grant County team as an intern, bringing fresh enthusiasm and a curiosity for local government in the region. Currently a senior at Marion High School, she is eager to gain hands-on experience and learn alongside our dedicated team. Olivia is particularly drawn to supporting community-centered initiatives and helping our offices serve the public more effectively. Outside of work, she enjoys helping animals in need and spending time with her three cats and barbary dove.
Board of Directors
Executive Board
Ashley Hurd
President
Closing Agent, Grant County Abstract
Kristi Pulley
Vice President Operations
HR Manager, Huhtamaki
Austin Ott
Treasurer
Accountant, TLC Management Senior Living
Jason Miller
Past President
Owner, Randall Miller & Associates, Inc.
Adrienne Rines Hammond | McKown & Myers, LLP
Alex Huskey | Ivy Tech
Andrea Masvero | 1846 Enterprises
Charles Geller | General Motors
Jeff Rayis | Indiana Wesleyan University
Kylie Jackson | Greater Grant County
Matt Voss | NearSpace Launch
Robin Shrader | Marion Utilities
Scott Bratcher | Bahr Brothers Manufacturing
Stephanie Hilton-Siebert | Marion Health
Nick McKinley | IN State Senator District 17
Lori Goss-Reaves | State Representative District 30
Ronald Morrell, Jr. | Mayor of Marion
Brian Cowgill | Marion City Council President
Joe Murphy | City of Marion Economic Development
Bill Rock | Mayor of Gas City
Russ Corbin | Gas City City Council President
Jonathan Perez | Town of Upland
Bobby Goins | Mayor of Jonesboro
Aaron Caudell | Grant County Council
Diversity and Inclusion
Founded in 1985, the Grant County Economic Growth Council emerged from a coalition of local leaders determined to revitalize a stagnant economy. Their goal: to showcase the county’s strengths and attract new investment by promoting business growth at the local, state, and national levels.
Since then, the Growth Council has earned statewide and national recognition—named a Top Ten Local Development Group by Site Selection magazine three times, cited as Indiana’s leader in plant expansion, and featured by the National League of Cities for its business retention success.
Our mission remains the same: to promote a vibrant, sustainable economy that empowers business growth and innovation for all who call Grant County home. As we look ahead, we reaffirm our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion—and to building a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.