March 11, 2009, 5:16PM

Katy Area Economic Development Council president Lance LaCour said growth in Katy’s business sector remained steady in 2008 despite tough economic times.

LaCour said the council had its second audit and finished the year “in the black” during his delivery of the annual report at a March 10 general assembly meeting.

Katy Independent School District trustees accepted Feb. 18 the recommendation of a study committee and named the district’s newest elementary after Stan C. Stanley.

The vote was 6-0, with trustee Joe Adams absent.

The LaCenterra retail center development in the heart of Cinco Ranch, is preparing to expand despite the sluggish economy, developers say.

The 34-acre mixed-use project, which opened its first phase in spring 2007, is being built in three phases over several years, developer Woody Mann Jr. of Vista Equities Group said. Facilities include upscale retail, office and medical leasing space. The planned expansion will include about 250 one-and two bedroom residential units.

Despite tougher standards, the Katy Independent School District improved its accountability rating from "acceptable" to "recognized" the second highest state rating.

The good news came Friday when the Texas Education Agency released its 2008 Academic Accountability ratings.

According to the TEA, more schools statewide are rated exemplary and recognized this year. Exemplary ratings went to 43 school districts and 996 schools this year compared to 27 districts and 643 schools in 2007, the release said.