Noble County economic development director stepping down
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The executive director of Be Noble Inc., the county’s economic development organization, has resigned. Gary Gatman’s last day on the job will be October 14. Gatman has been the organization’s leader since February 2020.
Gatman says his decision to leave Be Noble allows him to support his wife, Pattie, and their Noble County-based business, Room-2-Room.
According to Mayor SuzAnne Handshoe, who serves as the organization’s board chair, efforts will soon be underway to replace Gatman. Lori Gagen and Tara Streb, who serve as Be Noble’s operations manager and administrative assistant, respectively, will continue to support the organization’s daily operations.
“Gary’s love for Noble County is genuine,” said Handshoe. “His enthusiasm is always evident, and his efforts have made a great impact. I am immensely grateful for all the contributions he made during his tenure and speak for the entire board when I wish him the best in growing his and Pattie’s business. His contributions will be greatly missed at Be Noble.”
During Gatman’s tenure, Be Noble says many of the county’s empty industrial buildings became occupied, a new shell building was brought to market, and the new iSMART Lab to teach Industry 4.0 technical skills was launched.
Earlier this year, the county rebranded its economic development corporation under the name Be Noble.