Kilgore EDC Announces Planned Retirement of Executive Director Lisa Denton

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 23, 2026

Kilgore, TX — The Kilgore Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) today announced the planned retirement of Executive Director Lisa Denton, following many years of service dedicated to strengthening Kilgore’s economic future.

Denton’s career with KEDC spans nearly fifteen years, including her return to the organization in August 2021.

Since rejoining KEDC, Denton has led a period of significant growth, strategic alignment, and regional collaboration. Under her leadership, the organization achieved historic levels of capital investment between 2022 and 2025, including the attraction of Sweden-based Camfil USA and the expansion of KeepRite Refrigeration with the construction of its flagship facility—both located in Synergy Park.

Additional milestones include the expansion of KEDC’s partnership with Kilgore College, resulting in a long-term lease in the East Kilgore Industrial Park to support the college’s new Transportation Institute. In partnership with the City of Kilgore, KEDC also secured a $2.5 million grant award from the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration to fund infrastructure improvement projects in Synergy Park, enhancing transportation routes and extending utilities to support future development and regional business growth.

Denton’s tenure with the organization has also resulted in numerous awards and recognitions, including multiple Texas Economic Development Council honors for Community Economic Development, Workforce Excellence, and Economic Excellence, along with consecutive Business Retention & Expansion International Awards for Excellence and Impact.

“This role has always been about Kilgore—its people, its businesses, and its future,” said Denton. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together. As I step away from full-time leadership, I look forward to continuing to contribute to the profession in new ways while remaining deeply connected to the work and the people that matter most to me. I will always be invested in seeing this community continue to grow, innovate, and succeed.”

Alan Pollard, KEDC Board President, said:
“Lisa’s leadership has played a key role in advancing Kilgore’s economic development efforts. During her tenure, KEDC strengthened its partnerships, expanded its regional and statewide presence, and delivered meaningful results through business attraction, workforce collaboration, and infrastructure investment. Her work has helped position Kilgore as a competitive and forward-looking community, and we are grateful for the foundation she has helped build.”

Denton will remain with KEDC during a defined transition period to support continuity and knowledge transfer.

The KEDC Board of Directors will initiate a search for the organization’s next Executive Director in the coming weeks.

The Kilgore Economic Development Corporation extends its sincere appreciation to Lisa Denton for her years of dedicated service and lasting contributions. Her leadership has helped position Kilgore for continued success, and she will remain a valued part of the organization during the transition period.