The first President of the Development Finance Authority of Summit County (DFA) since 2000, Chris Burnham has successfully guided and financed numerous development and redevelopment projects in greater Akron and Northeast Ohio. Chris has been instrumental in building DFA into one of the most active economic development financing agencies in the State of Ohio. In […]

Rachel directs and manages financial initiatives and develops financial, budget and business plans for Development Fund of the Western Reserve (DFWR) and its subsidiaries.

Laurie Ann Stoddard is Fiscal Officer and Assistant Secretary to the Board of Directors of the Development Finance Authority.  As Fiscal Officer, Laurie Ann is responsible for compiling financial statements, budgeting, and document preparation for annual audits, investing reserve funds, managing trustee bank relationships, and Internal Revenue Service tax exempt bond compliance activities. Laurie Ann […]

Lori Sallaz is the Coordinator, Bond Finance Programs for the Development Finance Authority of Summit County. Lori is responsible for managing and maintenance of the A- rated Jobs and Investment Fund (Bond Fund) and various activities to promote economic development in the region.

Ben is responsible for general financial operations for the Development Fund of the Western Reserve (DFWR) and the Western Reserve Community Fund (WRCF). He manages DFWR and WRCF’s loan servicing and compliance, working closely with borrowers and consultants, as well as performing a variety of administrative, accounting, marketing, clerical, and management support duties necessary for […]

Alexandra is responsible for assisting with various administrative, clerical, and marketing aspects of The Development Finance Authority and the Development Fund of the Western Reserve. She manages the website, social media accounts, and assists management to keep The DFA’s offices running efficiently. Alexandra has a Bachelor’s degree from Kent State University in Business Management and […]

John Kinsey has several years of experience working in many phases of construction, prevailing wage, and appraising real estate. John worked in the private sector for many years and has been a business owner. Project Development Manager since 2017 for the Development Finance Authority and The Development Fund of the Western Reserve, John manages and […]