Dave Bee began at the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission (WMRPC) in 1999 and was appointed Director in 2000. He began working in the field of community planning in 1990. Dave’s primary responsibility involves implementing the policies of the 35-member Board of the WMRPC. Other responsibilities include meeting and communicating with member communities, developing and implementing an annual budget, maintaining a qualified staff, administration of numerous grants, member services, report coordination and preparation, and advocating for the WMRPC and member communities with state and federal agencies. Dave is also responsible for maintaining an up-to-date Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) and working with the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) and the 20-member CEDS Committee to identify appropriate community projects, encourage community growth, and assist communities in seeking funds from EDA to implement the CEDS. Dave has written master plans and recreation plans for cities, villages, townships, and counties across Michigan. His involvement in the CEDS process and planning has helped bring tens of millions of dollars into West Michigan’s communities. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners, the American Planning Association, and the Michigan Association of Planning. Dave holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Michigan State University and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Grand Valley State University.