VEDC Board Member Spotlight: Jon Schmaltz

Since 2014, Jon Schmaltz, partner at Burke, Costanza and Carberry (BCC), has served as a board member for the Valparaiso Economic Development Corporation (VEDC). His work with the board fits perfectly with his appreciation and enthusiasm for Valparaiso and all it has to offer.

“In that role, I’m involved in governance, oversight, and helping ensure the organization stays focused on practical and community-minded economic development,” Schmalz explained.

Schmaltz serves on another local board and is a strong supporter of the area’s local parks as well.

“I also serve on the volunteer board of directors of the Valparaiso Family YMCA and remain a strong supporter of Valparaiso Parks Foundation,” said Schmalz. “These organizations and their missions are critical for the benefit and support of families and children in Valparaiso.”

Furthermore, he is also involved with the community directly through his work at BCC. This includes advising local businesses, property owners, and organizations on real estate, legal, and development aspects that impact Valparaiso and the broader Porter County.

“I value that VEDC focuses on business retention, long-term thinking, and maintaining credibility with both the business community and the public,” Schmaltz said. 

VEDC is vital to helping the Valparaiso community grow, but in a way that is feasible.

“VEDC plays an important role in helping Valparaiso grow in ways that are realistic for the community,” said Schmaltz. “Development here has to deal with zoning limits, land availability, workforce constraints, and resistance to change; all of which are things that shape what is actually feasible.”

Schmaltz and his wife raised their three children in Valparaiso. The couple moved to Valparaiso from Indianapolis in 1999.

“Simply put, Valparaiso is a wonderful home.  It’s an ideal place to live, work, and raise a family,” said Schmaltz. “We love Valparaiso.”

Valparaiso has many valuable core aspects for Schmaltz and his family, one of which is its desirable location. 

“Its location, infrastructure, and access to larger regional markets are real advantages, while still functioning as an independent community where local decisions matter,” said Schmaltz. “It’s close to the Indiana Dunes National and State Parks and other recreational assets, and it has exceptionally strong educational and park institutions.”

One of the features of Valparaiso that Schmaltz enjoys the most is its industry. 

“More than anything, I value Valparaiso’s business leadership, its culture of entrepreneurship, and the willingness of local businesses and institutions to reinvest in the community,” said Schmaltz. “That combination makes both economic development and civic decision-making more effective and meaningful.”

Schmaltz has several hobbies that he pursues within the local community. 

“I enjoy spending time outdoors,” he said. “I’m usually working on a landscaping project, and I also enjoy cycling when the weather allows. Those activities are a practical counterbalance to my professional work.”

The VEDC consistently works to better the Valparaiso community, even through challenges that call for change.

“Economic development is often misunderstood,” said Schmaltz. “Much of the work is quiet, technical, and incremental, but it has long-term impact. Organizations like VEDC are most effective when they stay disciplined and focused on community stability and reinvestment.”

While change is sometimes needed to improve a community, it’s not always easy.

“Change can be difficult, and emotional reactions are common,” said Schmaltz. “It’s encouraging to work alongside leaders who rely on evidence, take the long view, and are willing to make careful, informed decisions about the community’s future.”

With VEDC and its solid leadership, including that of Schmaltz, Valparaiso will surely continue to grow and thrive. For years to come, it will remain a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.