Holden’s last day was Friday, April 14, 2023. He has led the department since 2018 and made $156,500 a year.
According to a Stafford County spokesman, Holden took a job in North Carolina to work on a smart city initiative.
Over the years, Holden sent an email newsletter describing his department’s work and consistently identified himself as the “new” guy. Holden came from Maine to work in Stafford.
In recent months, Holden fielded questions about the interests of data center developers, who have turned their attention to the county. The first data center application the county received proposes a campus with 24 buildings near the regional landfill, off Eskimo Hill Road.
In 2020, Holden brought the Stafford Smart City initiative, which is bringing 5G wireless to the county, which could lead to everything from driverless cars to smart trashcans that tell the government when they need to be emptied, Holden said in 2020.
In addition, Courtney Swenson, the department’s marketing manager, recently departed the organization April 7 after five years. Last fall, Rick Colbert, who spent 10 years in Stafford, left to lead the economic development department in Winchester.
Josh Summits is the county’s acting economic development director. The county government staff will post a job listing to the county website recruiting Holden’s replacement by June 1.
Meanwhile, the county will hold its annual Business Appreciation Reception on Wednesday, May 17, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Cyber Bytes Foundation, 1010 Corporate Dr #103, Stafford.
This year’s theme is “Honoring Stafford Businesses through the Decades” as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Stafford EDA. You can register online to attend.
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The Northern Virginia real estate market is experiencing an increase in home listings, with notable changes in pricing and inventory levels across Fairfax, Prince William, Stafford, and Spotsylvania counties.
Thousands of residents in Prince William and Stafford counties are without power as Dominion Energy and Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative (NOVEC) report widespread outages amid a high wind warning.
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors will vote on significant changes to its bylaws governing appointments to local and regional boards and commissions during its meeting at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.
A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
