Richmond native Rob Swafford was introduced last week as the new city economic director after former director James Gorham moved out of state. “I bring a deep background as a business owner, entrepreneur, philanthropist and community volunteer to my new role at Richmond’s City Hall. I have spent my lifetime investing in our community through many facets and I am always eager to see our community prosper and succeed,” said Swafford. The economic development director works closely with the city administrator and multiple Richmond City departments for development, redevelopment and community betterment. The economic development director also serves as the lead for implementation of Richmond’s Comprehensive Master Plan, legislative and regional affairs, communications plan, long-range planning and downtown improvements such as those proposed through this plan, Swafford outlined. Over the years, Swafford has worked with the Richmond City staff as a consumer of city services. He first…