Minden, NV – Following an open and competitive recruitment, Douglas County welcomes Kate Moroles-O’Neil as the County’s new Economic Vitality Manager. Moroles-O’Neil brings extensive experience in leadership, project management, planning, business development, workforce development, education, real estate, and event management to the role.
As Economic Vitality Manager, Moroles-O’Neil will lead implementation of the County’s Economic Vitality Strategic Plan and coordinate initiatives designed to support sustainable economic growth while preserving Douglas County’s unique character and natural resources. The position serves as a key liaison between the County, businesses, developers, community partners, and internal departments, helping facilitate complex projects and guide applications efficiently through the development review process.
The role will also oversee economic vitality and redevelopment programs, including the Economic Vitality Champion Program, coordinate special-purpose work groups, support business expansion and retention efforts, and represent the County with community and business organizations. A significant focus will be improving coordination between planning, building, engineering, and other departments to create a more predictable and professional experience for applicants while maintaining compliance with County regulations and community goals.
“Kate is uniquely positioned to take on this role because she understands both the regulatory side of development and the importance of building strong relationships with the people and businesses who invest in our community,” said Community Development Director Tom Dallaire. “Her experience as a planner, combined with her leadership background and broad understanding of business and workforce development, gives her the perspective needed to bring people and departments together and help move good projects forward.”
Moroles-O’Neil most recently served as Douglas County’s Principal Planner & Manager, giving her direct experience with land use, development processes, and the County’s community goals. Her career has also included leadership roles as a CEO, sole proprietor, agricultural events supervisor, and regional manager across industries including county fairs and agricultural associations, education, real estate, workforce development, and sales.
Her professional career began in the late 1980s when she toured the country as a professional golfer. That experience launched a career defined by adaptability, leadership, project management, and working with people from a wide range of backgrounds and industries.
“I’m excited to bring the different pieces of my professional experience together in this role,” Moroles-O’Neil said. “Economic vitality requires collaboration, clear communication, and an understanding of both the opportunities and challenges facing our community. I look forward to working with our businesses, developers, community partners, and County teams to make processes more coordinated and predictable while supporting responsible growth that reflects what makes Douglas County special.”
Moroles-O’Neil holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Saint Mary’s College of California. A fifth-generation Sacramento native, she moved to Gardnerville with her wife in January 2020. They enjoy spending time with family and friends, exploring the outdoors, and experiencing all that Douglas County has to offer with their two dogs, Bogey and Nitro. She continues to teach golf in her spare time and participates in charity tournaments.