There are a lot of people who deserve credit for the economic development that has helped to lift Lewiston into a model for growth.

One of them is Greg Mitchell, who was the city’s economic development director for more than seven years.

Mitchell was involved in attracting more than $300 million of new development to the city, including such stalwart gateway additions as Andover College, Northeast Bank, Oxford Networks and VIP Auto. He also played a leading role in landing the city’s big fish – the Wal-Mart distribution center near Exit 80 of the Maine Turnpike.

On Wednesday night, Mitchell’s colleagues from the city had a little fun at his expense during a roast at the Colisee. Some jokes were made, but the enduring message was that Mitchell has earned the respect of the community for the work he has done on its behalf.

Mitchell left the city for a job with the Eaton Peabody law firm in Bangor. Lincoln Jeffers, his understudy for five years, will take over his economic development responsibilities.

Economic development for a city requires the coordinated attention of a number of folks, including the city administrator and members of the City Council. As development director, though, Mitchell was the face of the community for attracting new businesses. We’re confident Jeffers will continue Lewiston’s progress, but he’s left in the unenviable position of filling big shoes.