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About EEA Companies

A Legacy of Entrepreneurial Investment

Our mission is to build enduring value through a disciplined, entrepreneurial, and long-term investment philosophy. We are committed to developing a diversified portfolio of high-quality assets, nurturing strategic partnerships, and fostering a culture of excellence that benefits our team, our partners, and the communities we serve.

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How It All Started

EEA Companies was founded in 1988, initially as an energy development company. For its first six years, the firm’s primary focus was developing three cogeneration facilities in New Jersey, successfully executing complex contracts for their construction, operation, and financing. In 1994, after selling these assets, EEA embarked on a new chapter.

This pivot marked our evolution into a dynamic and entrepreneurial investment company and family office. We researched various commercial real estate sectors to identify the best opportunities for long-term, risk-adjusted returns. This led to a strategic decision to allocate a substantial portion of our portfolio to multi-family communities in the southeastern United States, which became the cornerstone of our real estate division.

Over the past three decades, EEA and its affiliates have grown into a network of over twenty special-purpose companies. Today, our diversified portfolio includes multi-family and commercial real estate, boutique hospitality properties, and strategic venture capital investments, all managed by our dedicated in-house team.

MARK BETTS
Founder and President

Mr. Betts has an extensive background as a lawyer and economist, with over thirty-five years of diverse business experience. His professional journey includes roles as a practicing attorney, cogeneration developer, real estate investor, owner and operator, and venture capital investor.

In 1988, Mr. Betts founded EEA, originally named Economic Energy Alternatives. Over the past three decades, he has grown EEA from three cogeneration facilities in New Jersey to a portfolio of more than twenty privately held entities, primarily in commercial real estate.

As the President and CEO of EEA, Mr. Betts, with the support of his key advisors, plays a pivotal role in shaping the company’s strategic direction. He is also deeply committed to fostering a positive corporate culture that emphasizes employee development and ensuring that EEA’s assets are meticulously maintained both physically and aesthetically.​

Mr. Betts earned his BS in economics with honors from SUNY Albany. He went on to complete his MA in economics at McGill University, where he also worked at the university’s Center for the Study of Regulated Industries. He later received his JD from Albany Law School while working for two years at the New York Public Service Commission. After law school, Mr. Betts practiced law for five years—first at the Federal Trade Commission in Washington, D.C., and later at the Washington, D.C., office of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom.

EEA EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM

Our assets are managed by EEA Realty, LLC, our in-house management team of approximately twenty professionals. This dedicated team includes experts in law, engineering, finance, accounting, marketing, and human resources, providing comprehensive oversight for our entire portfolio. EEA Realty also serves as the family office for our founder, ensuring a seamless and integrated approach to asset and wealth management. This structure allows us to be nimble, hands-on, and deeply aligned with the long-term success of our investments.

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Kevin Kennedy

Chief Operating Officer

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Michelle Bondurant

Chief Financial Officer

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Jeff Lamb

Director of Acquisitions and Asset Management

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Kristin Clodfelter

Corporate Controller

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Hana Betts Otto

Director of Strategic Partnerships

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James Betts

Senior Associate

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Larry Foster

President, MuniBilling

OUR MANAGEMENT AND SHARED SERVICES TEAM
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Kenneth Hidalgo

General Manager, Playa Cativo

As General Manager of Playa Cativo, Kenneth Hidalgo leads the property with a strong focus on excellence, authenticity, and long-term sustainability. Beyond his role at Playa Cativo, Kenneth is also a professor at the University of Costa Rica, where he lectures on Ecotourism and inspires future leaders in sustainable hospitality. His passion for luxury, independent, and environmentally responsible hotels is reflected in every detail of the guest experience. With both academic insight and hands-on expertise, Kenneth is proud to showcase the very best of Costa Rica through Playa Cativo’s unique blend of comfort, conservation, and genuine hospitality.

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Michael Smith

General Manager, Goodstone Inn & Restaurant

Michael Smith serves as General Manager of Goodstone Inn & Restaurant, where he brings over two decades of hospitality leadership experience to this beloved Virginia destination. Known for leading with intention, culture, and heart, Michael has held multiple senior operations and general management roles, where he has guided teams to deliver exceptional guest experiences and strong business results. At Goodstone, he is committed to honoring the property’s mission of stewardship of the land while creating timeless, personalized experiences that leave lasting impressions on every guest.

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Shanna Hogan

Property Manager, 600 Cameron Street

Shanna Hogans serves as the Property Manager at 600 Cameron Street in Alexandria, Virginia. In this role, she oversees the daily operations of the property, ensuring that tenants have a professional and comfortable environment. Shanna is the primary contact for leasing inquiries, including flexible office spaces and conference room rentals. With a focus on tenant satisfaction, Shanna coordinates maintenance, manages tenant relations, and handles administrative tasks to keep the property running smoothly. Her commitment to providing exceptional service makes her a valuable resource for businesses seeking office solutions in Downtown Alexandria.

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Kim Doyle

Property Manager, Stonebrook of Greensboro

Kimberly Doyle has been the Property Manager at Stonebrook since June 2019. She handles budgeting, financial planning, rent roll management, and lease negotiations with a focus on operational efficiency and quality service. Kimberly was instrumental in the renovation of Stonebrook, managing everything from exterior improvements to interior transformations. She works closely with tenants and vendors to keep everything running smoothly. Known for her collaborative spirit and positive energy, Kimberly takes pride in being a team player who encourages others and leads with integrity.

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Melea Youtsey

Human Resources Manager

Melea Youtsey is a seasoned Human Resources Manager at EEA Companies, bringing over a decade of HR expertise and a strong foundation in retail management. With nearly 11 years of experience navigating the dynamic world of human resources—including 4.5 years leading HR initiatives at EEA—Melea is known for her strategic insight, people-first approach, and ability to foster thriving workplace cultures.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a double major in Marketing and Management, earned in 2011. Her academic background, combined with hands-on leadership in both corporate and retail environments, gives her a unique perspective on employee engagement and organizational development.

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Sarah Blount

Talent Acquisition and Career Development Specialist

As EEA Companies’ Talent Acquisition and Career Development Specialist, Sarah brings more than 20 years of experience in talent acquisition and employee development, helping build strong, engaged teams across hospitality, real estate, and software. She leads recruiting efforts and drives training and retention initiatives that strengthen culture and employee engagement across The Goodstone Inn & Restaurant, Playa Cativo, MuniBilling, and EEA Real Estate. Sarah is passionate about developing people, fostering connection, and creating opportunities for growth that keep employees motivated and inspired to build lasting careers within the organization.

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Andy Thoman

Marketing Manager, MuniBilling

Andy Thoman, Marketing Manager at MuniBilling, leads communications and brand development. Drawing on a diverse background across video production, nonprofit leadership, and project management, Andy blends creativity, strategy, and data to achieve meaningful impact. His degree in TV and Film Production from the University of Wisconsin gave him a lifelong appreciation for the power of storytelling. Later postgraduate studies in philosophy, theology, and data science further expanded his perspective into a holistic approach that shapes how he leads today.
He began his career in video production, honing his craft in storytelling and project execution. He later transitioned into nonprofit leadership as a regional director, focusing on anti-racism work, social justice training, and leadership development.
Throughout his career spanning nonprofits, religious institutions, manufacturing, corporate networking, and technology, Andy has built a reputation for transforming creative ideas into tangible outcomes. At MuniBilling, he continues that mission, strengthening brand identity and championing the belief that strategic creativity can elevate both the work being done and the people who partner in the work.

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Cara Hobbs

Hospitality Marketing Manager

Cara Hobbs is the Hospitality Marketing Manager for EEA Companies, combining her marketing expertise with a passion for exceptional guest experiences. She leads strategic marketing initiatives for EEA’s boutique hospitality properties, driving brand growth and customer engagement through innovative, data-driven campaigns.
With experience in marketing and operations, Cara has a proven track record of success, including crafting impactful social media campaigns, optimizing website content for SEO, and managing high-value private events. Previously, as Marketing Coordinator for Aramark Dining at High Point University, she boosted social media engagement and led creative marketing efforts that earned national recognition.
Cara holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a focus on Journalism and Public Relations from East Carolina University, along with a minor in English. She also holds certifications in digital marketing, including Google Digital Marketing & E-Commerce Management and multiple HubSpot certifications in SEO and social media marketing.
Known for her creativity, strategic mindset, and collaborative approach, Cara is committed to driving EEA’s hospitality ventures and creating memorable guest experiences.

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Jocelyn Guttierres

Hospitality Accountant

Jocelyn is an experienced accountant with a background in corporate, nonprofit, and automotive finance. At EEA Companies since February 2024, she manages daily accounting operations, financial reporting, and process improvements across multiple entities. Her previous roles include Advancement Manager at the YMCA of NWNC and finance positions at Flow Companies, bringing a well-rounded and detail-oriented approach to every organization she supports.

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Megan Perrine

Accountant

Megan is a detail-oriented and mission-driven professional with experience in accounting and administration across corporate and nonprofit settings. Currently serving as an Accountant for MuniBilling, Megan supports the MuniBilling team by daily handling accounts receivable, accounts payable, assisting the Client Success team to ensure client satisfaction, preparing weekly bank reconciliations, and assisting with various tasks and month-end closing processes. With a strong background in accounting, office administration and process improvement, Megan brings a collaborative and solutions-focused approach to every task to help maintain financial accuracy and operational efficiency.

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Gabrielle Branson

Real Estate Accountant

Gabi is a Real Estate Accountant at EEA Companies with over seven years of experience in property management and accounting. She oversees the financial operations of real estate and commercial properties, combining precision with a thoughtful, client-focused approach. With associate degrees in Human Resources and Business Administration, Gabi brings both analytical skill and people-centered insight to every project she supports.

Our Values:
The Foundation of Our Success

Our culture is defined by a set of core values that guide every decision we make.

  • Long-Term Vision: We invest with a generational mindset, focusing on sustainable growth and lasting value over short-term gains.

  • Pride of Ownership: We take immense pride in our assets, dedicating ourselves to proactive maintenance, beautification, and operational excellence.

  • Integrity and Partnership: We build relationships based on trust and transparency, working closely with a select group of investment partners, lenders, and team members who share our vision.

  • Entrepreneurial Spirit: We remain agile and forward-thinking, always seeking innovative solutions and untapped opportunities to enhance our portfolio.

Corporate Retreat at Goodstone Inn
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