The Bay City Community Development Corporation (BCCDC) announced recently the selection of Melanie Townsend as its new executive director.
Townsend brings more than 18 years of executive-level leadership experience in operations, financial management, business development, and community engagement.
Her career reflects a strong commitment to advancing local economic growth and strengthening partnerships across Bay City and Matagorda County.
A lifelong Bay City resident, Townsend currently serves as manager and marketing director of Bay City Imaging, where she led organizational growth, overseen financial operations, and developed strategic relationships with healthcare providers, businesses, and community stakeholders.
In her role, she was responsible for budgeting, staff leadership, contract oversight, and driving business development initiatives that expanded market reach and strengthened community ties.
“Melanie brings the right combination of leadership, operational expertise, and deep community roots that BCCDC needs at this important time,” said Jim Folse, president of the BCCDC Board of Directors. “Her ability to manage complex operations while building strong relationships across the community will be instrumental as we continue to focus on economic development, job creation, and quality-of-life projects for Bay City.”
Townsend expressed her enthusiasm for the role and the opportunity to serve the community.
“I am honored to be selected as executive director of BCCDC,” said Townsend. “Bay City is my home, and I am passionate about contributing to its continued growth and success.
“I look forward to working with the board, our partners, and the community to build on the strong foundation already in place and help move our city forward.”
Townsend has also been engaged in community and civic activities throughout the region.
She was awarded the 2021 Citizen of the Year by the Bay City Police Department and was actively involved with organizations and events including Matagorda County Area Go Texan, Andrew Vasek Memorial Cookoff, Shop with a Cop, Jason Anderson Memorial Golf Tournament, Pilot Club of Bay City (Celebrity Waiter Dinner), and the El Maton National Hall rawfish Cookoff.
She is also a strong supporter of numerous local organizations such as the Palacios Youth Supporters, CCA LOTB Fishing Tournament, Texas Trio Classic Fishing Tournament, Bay City Soccer League, Bay City Crisis Center, and many others over the years.
Melanie is married to Chris Townsend and together they share three children, Samantha, Cameron, and Andrew, a son-in-law, Orrin, a grandson, Edwin, and their four-legged child, Layla.
The BCCDC board conducted a comprehensive search process and is confident that Townsend’s leadership will help guide the organization into its next phase of growth and impact.
