Economic Development in Central Texas has flourished over the years thanks to the leadership of Gary Farmer who will be honored as the Greater Austin Chamber’s 2006 Austinite of the Year at its 129th Annual meeting.

Farmer is President of Heritage Title Company of Austin and played key leadership roles within the Chamber for a number of years including Chair of the Greater Austin Economic Development Corporation, Vice-Chair of the Chamber’s Economic Development division and Chairman of Opportunity Austin. Farmer led the strategic planning and fundraising efforts for Opportunity Austin, the Chamber’s five year economic development plan to create 72,000 new jobs. With Farmer’s direction, Opportunity Austin fundraising efforts exceeded its goal by $3 million, bringing in a record-setting $14 million. Farmer has represented the Chamber around the world on marketing and business retention trips to places that include Korea, Japan, San Jose and New York City.

"Gary saw the tremendous need for this community to re-establish its focus on all aspects of economic development," said 2006 Chamber Chairman Tim Crowley, President-Austin Community Banking Group, Frost Bank. "Due to his tireless leadership, Opportunity Austin has been an unprecedented success. The monies raised in this program have benefited many aspects of economic development, including educational initiatives and the diversification of this community's employers and talent pool. "

Farmer will be recognized at the Chamber’s 129th Annual Meeting on February 6, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Hilton-Austin, 500 East Fourth Street.

Media Availability: Farmer will be available for media interviews on Thursday, January 4, 9 to 11 a.m. at his office in the Frost Bank Building. Please contact Amanda Sablatura to schedule an interview time.