Carlson named new Gainesville EDC director, starts Feb. 8

GAINESVILLE, Texas — The Gainesville Economic Development Corporation has a new executive director, with Matt Carlson set to take the helm on February 8. The Gainesville City Council approved Carlson's hiring Tuesday. He comes to Gainesville from the City of DeSoto, where he served as Economic Development Director since 2020. His tenure there focused on implementing comprehensive planning initiatives for the Dallas-area community. "I'm humbled to be your choice to lead the GEDC and I appreciate your confidence," Carlson told the council. "I look forward to earning your trust in the days and weeks to come." Carlson replaces Arlene Lloyd, who served as interim director following William Myers' recent departure to become city manager in Bonham. Lloyd, a longtime Gainesville economic development professional who came out of retirement to fill the interim role, expressed confidence in her successor. "I'm very possessive of this community. I'm very proud of it, and that I got to come back and work the job that I love, and that I'm handing it over to a great person," Lloyd said. The GEDC works to attract new businesses and support existing employers in Gainesville. The organization plays a key role in the city's economic growth strategy, working with prospects on site selection and incentive packages. Carlson's experience in the competitive DFW economic development market is expected to bring new perspectives to Gainesville's business recruitment efforts. For information about the Gainesville EDC, visit www.gainesvilleedc.com.