Staff
Economic Development Director
Megan Brew
megan.brew@lakecountyfl.gov
Phone: 352-742-3925
Cell: 352-973-1474
Meg joined the Lake County Economic Development Team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience in agri-business, science, and data-driven decision-making. A familiar face in the community, Meg previously served as Extension Faculty with the University of Florida from 2007-2024 and as the Director of Extension Services in Lake County from 2019-2024. She holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from the University of Florida and considers herself a dedicated lifelong learner.
In her current role, Meg is passionate about using evidence-based strategies to foster sustainable economic growth and create employment opportunities for Lake County residents. With a commitment to collaboration and customer service, she works to build partnerships that enhance the economic health and well-being of the community. Meg firmly believes that smart and intentional economic development efforts can transform the lives of individuals and contribute to the prosperity of a region.
A seventh generation Floridian originally from north Florida, Meg has put down roots in Lake County, having raised her son in the community since 2010. She is proud to call this beautiful and unique piece of Florida home and spends most of her free time exploring local parks and nature preserves. Meg currently lives in Tavares with her husband and their menagerie of pets.
Workforce Development Specialist
Jermane Coote
jermane.coote@lakecountyfl.gov
Phone: 352-742-3923
Jermane is the Workforce Development Specialist for the Lake County Office of Economic Development. As a resident of Lake County for 18 years and a veteran of the US Army, Jermane has deep roots in the community and a commitment to fostering a vibrant, prosperous environment. With over 20 years of experience in the Central Florida business community, he is well equipped to assist with workforce related issues in Lake County.
Jermane is passionate about connecting entities across public, private, and non-profit sectors to create a community rich in talent and opportunities. His efforts focus on helping residents develop the skills needed for future workforce demands and emerging occupations. Jermane's goal is to contribute to a healthy, forward-thinking Lake County that benefits from strong, collaborative relationships between all community sectors.
Economic Development Program Associate
Rubi Robinson
rubi.robinson@lakecountyfl.gov
Phone: 352-742-3921
Rubi serves as the Program Associate for the Lake County Office of Economic Development where she has quickly developed a passion for supporting her community. A Lake County resident since the age of six, Rubi is now raising her family in the area she proudly calls home.
Rubi is a fast learner who loves new challenges and enjoys utilizing her bilingual skills to assist others. In her role, she thrives on learning and growing alongside her team, and she is eager to expand her career and deepen her knowledge. Rubi aims to enhance support for the vital businesses and organizations that drive the local economy. Committed to making a positive impact, she looks forward to contributing to the continued success of Lake County.
Executive Director, Development Services
Kathleen Dial
kathleen.dial@lakecountyfl.gov
Phone: 352-742-3927
Cell: 352-460-7602
Kathleen serves Lake County as the Executive Director of Development Services, which includes the offices of Planning and Zoning, Building Services, Code Enforcement, and Economic Development. She is deeply committed to Lake County, where she has lived and raised her family for more than 20 years.
Through her service to Lake County, she champions local businesses, understanding that they form the backbone of a thriving economy. She works with partners to showcase the workforce and career pathways in Lake County. She is passionate about workforce development, recognizing its pivotal role in building a strong community. Kathleen also assists Lake County in the development of strategic corridors to serve as significant drivers of economic development. In her role as Executive Director of Development Services, she strives to be customer service oriented, working to streamline the Development process in Lake County and utilize new soware applications to be efficient and transparent.
Kathleen’s career pathway is deeply rooted in service to Central Florida. She served as an educator and leader with a national charter school organization. In this role, she led the process of budget development, school leadership, grant management, governance, system and process organization, and land and building purchases through the tax-exempt bond market. Her work in her family title company, which assists in residential, commercial, and timeshare closings, as well as title transfers, gave her valuable experience and insight into the importance of development processes done well.
As a collaborator, Kathleen thrives on working together to achieve common goals. In her view, when people come together and put in the effort, challenges transform into opportunities. Her belief in the power of collaboration drives her work as she serves Lake County.
