Susan Grafton exits Loveland eco-devo post after 6 months

LOVELAND — Susan Grafton’s last day as director of the city of Loveland’s economic development will be Friday.

Grafton, a veteran economic developer, was hired for the job six months ago.

Grafton did not provide a reason for her leaving the job, saying by phone on Thursday, “I am not at liberty to talk about it. It’s time for me to move on.”

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Steve Adams, who was hired as Loveland’s city manager in July to replace Bill Cahill, did not immediately return a request for comment.

Grafton, in an email to some members of the business community, said that Adams will be the city’s primary economic development contact for the immediate future.

She said in the email, “Thank you for your contribution, advice, help and input concerning the Loveland business environment and economic future. It has been a pleasure working with you. If ever I can be of assistance to you, please feel free to contact me.”

Grafton started the job in Loveland Feb. 29, filling the position left vacant in October when Betsey Hale left to become president of the Three Rivers Development Foundation in Corning, N.Y.

Before joining the city of Loveland, Grafton was self-employed as a consultant. Prior to that, she spent 24 years — from 1991 to 2015 — leading the city of Westminster’s economic development efforts. Her work there included helping foster the Orchard Town Center, a million-square-foot retail and entertainment complex at the junction of Interstate 25 and 144th Avenue.

Prior to Westminster, her background includes planning and economic development positions in Wyoming and Louisiana. And she’s certified as an Economic Developer by the International Economic Development Council.