News release
The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corp. announced the appointment of Don Kimball as co-chair of its board of directors, succeeding John Shaffery, managing partner of Poole Shaffery, who has held the position since January 2023.
Kimball brings extensive leadership experience and a deep commitment to the Santa Clarita Valley to his new role, the EDC said in a news release. As executive vice president of Valencia operations for FivePoint, Kimball oversees the entitlement, operational, financial and administrative activities of Valencia by FivePoint.
“His innovative leadership has helped Valencia become one of the first communities of its size in the nation to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, setting a benchmark for sustainable urban development,” the EDC release said.
“I deeply value the collaborative spirit that John Shaffery has brought to the SCVEDC these many years and am excited to welcome Don Kimball as our new co-chair,” Calvin Hedman, co-chair of the SCVEDC and Managing Partner at Hedman Partners LLP, said in the release. “Don brings a wealth of knowledge to our organization will undoubtedly strengthen our efforts to drive meaningful economic progress in the SCV.”
Kimball’s career spans more than 35 years, including leadership positions in the development of the award-winning Valencia community. He earned his master of business administration from Pepperdine University and a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from California State University at Northridge.
Kimball has supported various nonprofit boards and civic organizations in the Santa Clarita Valley.
“Don’s passion for the Santa Clarita Valley community make him the perfect fit for this role,” Ondré Seltzer, president & CEO of SCVEDC, said in the release. “As we continue our mission to enhance economic growth and attract new businesses, Don’s expertise in sustainable development and community collaboration will help SCVEDC build upon its strong foundation and drive continued growth for the region.”
“As one of the founding members of the SCVEDC, John Shaffery’s dedication and contributions over the past 15 years have been instrumental in the growth and success of the organization as well as the Santa Clarita Valley’s business community,” the EDC release said.
Jason Beaman, partner at Poole Shaffery, will be taking over as the firm’s representative on the SCVEDC board, with Shaffery focusing on managing his firm’s expanding business.
“John has been an outstanding leader and advocate for economic development in our community,” Kimball added. “We are incredibly grateful for his contributions and look forward to continuing to work with Poole Shaffery and Jason as a valued member of our board.”
To learn more about the EDC, visit www.scvedc.org.
