Kent Gardner, Ph.D. President & Chief Economist
(585) 327-7054 One-page bio | High res photo

Expertise
Economics and public finance

In addition to his role as president, Dr. Gardner leads CGR’s study of economics and public finance. He brings 25 years’ experience in state and regional economic analysis, assessing the impacts of major developments, institutional change or public policy. He frequently comments on economic issues for the media and before community and public organizations. He also serves as president of the national Governmental Research Association.

Sample Projects

• Expansion of CGR’s footprint through the development of marketable data and analysis tools
• Contribution of New York Power Authority hydroelectric power to the western NY economy
• Web-based community profiles that help drive strategic planning designed to stimulate community solutions for critical challenges

• Economic impact of wind farm development
• Economic and social impacts of casino gambling
• Net distribution of state expenditures and revenues in New York
• Role of nonprofits and educational institutions in the New York economy
• Contribution of New York state government to the development and allocation of below-market energy
• Dissemination of broadband Internet in rural areas
• Economic impact of health-related research or health institutions
• Evaluation of industrial development agencies
• Fiscal impact of community land use developments
• Cost control and management in government service areas
• Program evaluation of private school voucher programs
• Fiscal impact of economic development alternatives
• Medicaid cost containment
• Assessment of consolidation planning issues related to school districts and libraries for a study for Nassau County on Long Island 

Education
Dr. Gardner holds B.A., M.A. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Wisconsin at Madison.

Background
Dr. Gardner joined CGR in 1991 as Director of Economic Analysis and became President in 2005. Previously he was Associate Professor of Economics at Potsdam College of the State University of New York, where he also founded the North Country Economic Research Center. His previous experience includes serving as senior economist for a Saratoga Springs NY-based consulting group.