Economic Development Commission Statement of Interest
from
Edward Don Thompson
I seek reappointment to the Richmond Economic Development Commission (EDC). It has been my privilege to serve on the EDC for the past two years. This service has been in support of the city’s efforts to promote the vitality of Richmond and the prosperity of our citizens. During my time on the EDC, I have spoken before the city council in support of Richmond Green Blue New Deal projects, and served on the EDC’s 2024 Taste of Richmond standing committee and the EDC’s Policy standing committee.
I am currently Vice Chair of the EDC, and I am excited to continue our important work in this leadership position.
I became interested in serving the city of Richmond when I retired from the US federal government. I was motivated to serve this community. My 37 years with Departments of Interior, Navy, and Energy have provided with the knowledge, insight, and skills to be an effective contributor to the Commission in fulfilling its purpose of recommending long term economic goals to the City Council for the overall economic development of the city.
At the conclusion of my federal civil service career, I was a senior leader at the Energy Department’s Livermore Field Office, which is responsible for the oversight of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory operations. I was specifically responsible for the oversight of Laboratory physical and cyber security programs.
In this role I managed a 100 million dollar physical and cyber security budget, supervised a team of security and cyber experts, and worked with non-profit and for-profit organizations that delivered the Department’s nuclear security mission.
This work entailed coordination and consultation with local government agencies to understand and accommodate their economic, environmental, and public safety interests.
I have lived in the city since 1998, when I purchased our home in the Richmond Annex. We love it here, and have always followed the Richmond City Council in their effort to establish policies and programs that enhance the vitality and prosperity of the city and its citizens. Since retirement I have served as a volunteer for the Bay Area Rescue Mission, the Lighthouse of the Blind and Visually Impaired. I became a certified personal trainer and operate a small business in Richmond. I am a member of the Richmond Annex CERT Leadership Group, and I continue to be a member of the Richmond Annex Neighborhood Council.
Participation on the EDC has been a rewarding experience enabling me to contribute to the vitality, prosperity, and promise of the City of Pride and Purpose.