West Virginia Code of State Rules Agency 145 - Development Office
West Virginia Code of State Rules – Agency 145: Development Office
Overview:
Agency 145 of the West Virginia Code of State Rules (CSR) governs the West Virginia Development Office (WVDO), which operates under the Department of Economic Development. The Development Office is primarily responsible for fostering economic growth, business development, community investment, and infrastructure improvements throughout the state.
The rules under Agency 145 implement policies, programs, and funding mechanisms that support economic development goals by providing financial and technical assistance to businesses, local governments, and nonprofit entities.
Key Functions and Responsibilities:
Business and Industry Development:
Administers programs that attract, retain, and expand businesses in West Virginia.
Provides grants, loans, and tax incentives to promote private-sector investment.
Community Development and Infrastructure:
Oversees the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and other state and federally funded development efforts.
Supports water and sewer projects, housing, and public facilities in underserved areas.
Workforce and Training Support:
Collaborates with other agencies to align workforce development with business needs.
May help administer training grants or programs in support of industrial growth.
Small Business and Entrepreneurial Support:
Offers resources, mentoring, and funding opportunities for startups and small businesses.
Promotes innovation and rural business development.
Tourism, Culture, and Revitalization:
May collaborate on initiatives to revitalize downtowns, improve tourism infrastructure, or support arts and cultural heritage development.
Examples of Specific Programs Covered by Agency 145 Rules:
145 CSR 2 – Community Development Block Grant Rules
Establishes eligibility, project selection criteria, environmental review procedures, and reporting requirements for CDBG funds.
145 CSR 3 – Business Development Grant Programs
Provides rules for the administration of grants aimed at supporting business growth and job creation.
145 CSR 6 – Water and Sewer Infrastructure Fund Rules
Governs financial assistance for infrastructure development critical to economic and community growth.
Legal Authority:
Agency 145 operates under West Virginia Code § 5B, which governs economic development, tourism, and infrastructure financing programs.
The rules ensure that public funds are used effectively, transparently, and in accordance with both state law and federal guidelines (for federally backed programs).
Development Office Goals:
Stimulate economic investment and job creation
Enhance public infrastructure and community capacity
Support underserved communities and rural areas
Foster an entrepreneurial environment in West Virginia
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