The City of Magnolia named Tana Ross its new economic development coordinator in May.

Ross, who is taking the place of Deborah Rose Miller, will be focusing her efforts on expanding business development in Magnolia, along with city administrator Paul Mendes.

"I talk to developers, retailers and entrepreneurs who are interested in building a business in the area and answer their proposals about the city to see if it's a good fit for their business," Ross said. "I also do business retention, which involves speaking with local business leaders weekly to find ways to produce more growth and retain the businesses we already have."

Although Ross is new to the position, she is familiar with development in Magnolia and the surrounding area. She previously worked with Miller on Magnolia's Economic Development Corporation and Community Development Corporation. Better known as 4a and 4b, the two entities were established to improve industrial activity and community life in the city.

Ross said her heavy involvement in the community makes her job as EDC more gratifying.

"I love the atmosphere," she said. "It's very friendly and very Texan, but there is still lots of progress here. I also love that I get to interact with different people every day and help them find what's best for them. It's a great feeling to see a new business hit the ground because I know then that we are meeting the needs of people."

Ross said her goals for the city include focusing on expanding retail business for Magnolia residents, giving them access to more amenities and preparing for the future. Her objectives are in line with the city's comprehensive plan, approved last year.

"There is a focus on retail space to offer more at Magnolia Town Center," Ross said. "There is already lots of interest in that area and I'm constantly showing people property there almost every week."

Ross said she is also working keep businesses informed about ongoing development in the area by adding information about available retail space online

With ExxonMobil coming to The Woodlands, Ross said Magnolia is in the mindset for growth.

"We've been told that [the move] will bring growth here and surrounding areas based on the sheer number of employees coming," she said. "We have a very healthy economy here and it's on its way to becoming larger."

Ross' office is at Magnolia City Hall, 18111 Buddy Riley Road.