EDGE Board Approves Port Jurisdiction Expansion Request and Sublease, One Small Business Loan

The Economic Development Growth Engine (EDGE) Board on Wednesday approved two resolutions on behalf of the Memphis and Shelby County Port Commission, advancing actions aimed at strengthening regional economic development and improving operational efficiency at port-related properties. The EDGE Economic Development Finance Committee also approved a Small Business Loan to Bad Timing LLC.

The board approved the administration of an expanded Port Commission jurisdictional area, subject to final approval by joint resolution of the mayors and legislative bodies of the City of Memphis and Shelby County. The proposed expansion would extend the Port Commission’s territorial limits to include unincorporated Shelby County while excluding areas within the incorporated municipalities of Arlington, Bartlett, Collierville, Germantown and Millington, as well as portions of the City of Memphis along the Mississippi River waterfront.

In a separate action, the EDGE Board approved a request from the City of Memphis to sublease property located in Pidgeon Industrial Park to WeCare Denali, LLC. Under the terms of the sublease, the City of Memphis will remain the primary tenant.

“These approvals reflect how EDGE and the Port Commission are continuing to adapt to the realities of a regional economy,” said EDGE President and CEO Dr. Joann Massey. “By supporting operational efficiencies at port facilities, we are better positioned to drive long-term economic growth and create opportunity across Memphis and Shelby County.”

The board also passed a resolution to adjust Commercial Property Development PILOT Program policies and procedures. These updates clarify and strengthen EDGE’s Community Property Development PILOT Program by aligning eligibility with New Markets Tax Credit guidelines, refining location criteria, and sharpening the program’s focus on owner-occupied, community-serving projects.

The Economic Development Finance Committee also met and approved a $25,000 Small Business Loan. Through small forgivable loans, the program has invested more than $9 million in Memphis neighborhoods. Nicholas Riley, owner of Bad Timing LLC, will use the funds to help with a variety of interior and exterior building interior improvements at 626 Minor Street. The business is a buy, sell, and trade clothing store for vintage and designer finds, and building adjustments will also allow Bad Timing to hire additional employees.