GEORGIA - · PDF fileSWGRC Region and SWOT ... Southwest Georgia has one of the best solar ... became the long term chairman of the Coco-Cola

Southwest

GEORGIA

Developed by:

Economic Development Committee

FOR

Economic Development

With Assistance from:

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

181 East Broad Street

Camilla, Georgia 31730

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Comprehensive Plan Update

Table of Contents: Introduction………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….Page 1

Executive Summary……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….2

SWGRC Region and SWOT…………………………………………………………………………………………………3-31

SWGRC Staff………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..32

SWGRC Council ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………33-34

CEDS Strategy Committee…………………………………………………………………………………………………….35

I. The State of the Region – Regional SWOT……………………………………………………..36-38 A. Economy- Income and Employment Characteristics…………………………………39-40 B. Population- Race and Ethnicity & Population by Race/Change…………………40-42 C. Workforce Development and Education…………………………………………………..43-45

1. Education Attainment of Workforce 2. Education of Labor Force

D. Economic Clusters- Regional Cluster Analysis…………………………………………..44-45 II. Regional Goals, Objectives, and Implementation Strategies…………………………..46-49

III. Economic Development Projects ……………………………………………………………………50-53

IV. Conclusion………………………………………………………………………………………………………….54

V. Reference Page………………………………………………………………………………………………….56

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Introduction

A comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS) is designed to bring the public, stakeholders and the private sectors together in the creation of an economic roadmap to diversify and strengthen the regional economies. Potential partners for developing a CEDS should include government agencies, private sector interests, education providers, nonprofits, community and labor groups, workforce boards, and utilities. It should analyze the regional economy and serve as a guide for establishing regional goals and objectives, developing and implementing a regional plan of action, and identifying investment priorities and funding sources. A Regional CEDS should integrate a region’s human and physical capital planning in the service of economic development. The Comprehensive Economic Development Plan must be the result of a continuing economic development planning process developed with broad-based and diverse public and private sector participation, and must set forth the goals and objectives necessary to solve the economic development problems of the region and clearly define the metric of success. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, an integrated economic development planning provides the flexibility to adapt to global economic conditions and fully utilize the region’s unique advantages to maximize economic opportunity for its residents by attracting the private investment that creates jobs for the region’s residents. Finally, a CEDS provides a useful benchmark by which a regional economy can evaluates opportunities with other regions in the national economy. Wise planning ensures that future development will take place in a manner compatible with the best interests of the community. The annual Comprehensive Plan Update for Southwest Georgia Regional Commission plan exhibits an executive summary, overview of the region with SWOT analysis, directory of the SWGRC Council, SWGRC Staff, CEDS Strategy Committee, population change percentage, education attainment for the region, economic clusters, economic development projects by county and the regional goals, objectives and implementation strategies. .

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Executive Summary

The SWGRC developed a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas and Worth counties.

This CEDS Annual Report Update contains brief information on the goals and the objectives for the Southwest Georgia region. The region overall is working collaboratively but has not had a significant impact on jobs and private investment. USDA’s Stronger Economies Together Program has provided education and economic support to small businesses but will need to continue with this process before any substantial improvements are exhibited. There have been numerous workshops provided over the past years to educate small business and other entrepreneurs.

There have been few industries to relocate to the region and the region is constantly working on its improvement of water, sewer, roads, and technology. The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission has completed the rollout of the Digital Economic Plan on September 03, 2015 and its purpose was to identify gaps in regional technology. The plan will have an enormous effect on tourism as well as recruiting of businesses to the Southwest Georgia region. The plan assessed the current status of the digital economy involving stakeholders from various sectors of the community in the involvement stage and used information from both developing strategies and goals to help move Southwest Georgia forward.

Small Businesses have been created throughout the region but the existing infrastructure has been able to accommodate them. We see that there is a strong need for finance resources and other tools. The Regional Commission continues to make loans available to eligible small businesses.

The education systems or schools in our region are improving in spite of the severe budget cuts. Technical schools are more focused on training geared to meet the current demands of the markets. The SWGRC staff had very serious discussions with Albany Technical College, Albany State University, and Southwest Georgia Regional Technical College in their attempt to provide educational opportunities based on the needs of the current workforce. Local high schools, colleges, universities are working more closely to improve the high school graduation rates and provide better educational opportunities for students.

In an effort to impact economic development and as an alternative source of energy, the farmers in our area are embracing solar energy. This is still a work in progress project

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with the farmers. However, solar energy has surged in popularity over the past few years as the price of panels dropped dramatically. China is driving down the cost of the panels but panels are manufactured in the Unites States and available to buyers. This type of wind and hail resistant equipment comes with a 20 to 25 year warranty, carries a load of three pounds per square foot. For the economics of the solar farm to work for a farmer, he has to be eligible for a tax incentive and currently projects are in Decatur County, Mitchell County, and Terrell Counties. Under certain circumstances, the investors can expect to recoup their initial outlay in five years, collect on the power contract for another 15 years and still have a decade of life-expectancy left in the panels.

Southwest Georgia has one of the best solar resources in the Unites States according to solar energy companies. As energy costs increase, farmers will have to be more innovative. Decatur County, Early County and Terrell Counties are among the largest solar installations in the state of Georgia.

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SWGRC Region The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission consists of 14 counties and 44 cities located in the extreme southwestern corner of Georgia bordering Northwest Florida and Southeast Alabama. It has a 2010 census population of 356,433 and is the least populated region in Georgia, just slightly behind Southeast Georgia. The region is agricultural in nature and is bordered by the South Georgia Regional Commission to the east, and the Three Rivers Regional Commission to the north and northwest. The region is largely rural with over 43 percent of the land in row crops and pasture and an additional 34 percent in forest.

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission service area includes the following fourteen counties: Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas and Worth. Forty-four incorporates places are located within the Region. All counties combined, the region encompasses 5,915 square miles, much of which is utilized for agricultural and forestry purposes. Historically, Southwest Georgia has been recognized as a slow growth and agriculturally oriented area.

Since the region’s growth is slow, the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is one tool used to identify and attract new business ventures and assist existing industries in Southwest Georgia. Economic Development and growth are very important to the success of all communities. The region has an abundance of cultural and natural resources that make it an ideal spot for anyone to do business. Our region is the place to be.

Baker County

Baker County is a rural county with a population of 3805, which is a population gain of 354 from the 2000 Census. The poverty rate has grown from 25.6% to 28.4% according to 2011 Census data. The median household income is $27,353.00. Primarily an agricultural community, Baker County produces peanuts, cotton, canola, poultry, and beef. Baker County has 125 businesses that employ 565 people. There is one incorporated city in Baker County, the City of Newton that also serves as the County seat. The City of Newton was incorporated January 20, 1872 and is located right on the Flint River.

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Baker County is home to two significant water bodies, the Flint River and the Ichawaynochaway Creek. Baker County has numerous strengths, attractions and commodities for enjoying life. Some to include the many plantations, large agricultural life, forest areas, river corridor, a flood plain, downtown Newton and cross roads community. Also, you can add additional strengths such as residential areas, commercial node, boating, hunting, fishing, new county schools, beautiful canopy roads, and growth in the minority population. In 2001, the Baker County Board of Education voted to separate their school system from the Mitchell County School System and built a K-12 facility that currently has about 340 students. There are also weaknesses, the continued flooding, inadequate cultural and recreational facilities, high demand on public services and facilities due to the increase in youth and elderly population, high levels of poverty, and possible water contamination from aging septic systems.

Traditionally, Baker County’s economy has been based on Agriculture and over 90% of the Baker County territory is dedicated to it. Some 64% of the population in Baker County work outside the county in the MSA area (Dougherty County) resulting in a loss of sales tax revenues. Having such a high percentage of the economically active residents of Baker commuting proves the severe absence of local jobs. Baker County encompasses 347 square miles (222,080 acres) and has one of the lowest population densities in the state. Most of the land is used for agriculture and forestry. Agriculture accounts for 28% of land use in the unincorporated areas. Nearly half (47%) of the agricultural and forestry lands are located on large plantations. Many of these plantations have active farming and forestry operations, although a significant portion is in conservation use, including the large tract that is home to the J. W. Jones Ecological Center.

The J. W. Jones Ecological Research Center was established in 1991 as a research, conservation and education center. It is a 29,000 acre outdoor laboratory. It is a nonprofit organization that employs over 100 people. Graduate students from all over the country have completed thesis research with on-site advisors. The original acreage was established as a quail hunting reserve in the 1920’s by Robert W. Woodruff, who became the long term chairman of the Coco-Cola Company.

Strengths and Opportunities:

• Flint River • Jones Ecological Resource and Education Center • Ichawaynochaway Creek

Weaknesses and Opportunities:

• Regular flooding

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• Persistent Poverty • Absentee landowners • Limited tax base and resources

Goals:

• Continue to support the Jones Ecological Resource Center • Increase participation on regional projects • Support existing industry • Improve the infrastructure of sewer, water and roads

Calhoun County

Calhoun County is a rural county that is home to four incorporated cities: Arlington, Edison, Leary and Morgan. The City of Arlington is the hub of medical facilities catering to elderly and other specialized populations; and is home to the May Day Festival which was started in 1932. The City of Edison has an excellent hometown atmosphere, situated above Georgia most productive ground water supply, the Florida aquifer and home to the King Cotton Horse Show since 1935. Leary, Georgia has long been an agricultural supply center for neighboring plantations and farms. Still Pond Vineyard is located near Leary and it is one of the largest commercial winery in the state of Georgia. The City of Morgan is home to all of the Calhoun County business office. The courthouse is located on “courthouse square” located in the center of Morgan and state highways 37, 45, 234 and 41 all come into the courthouse square. The population of Calhoun County is 6504, which is a population decrease 189 from the 2010 Census. The poverty rate has grown from 27.4 % to 40.5 % from 2010-2012. The median household income is $26,986.00. Thirty one percent (31.7%) of the population does not have a high school diploma. Agriculture dominates the economy, with more than 50% of the land designated prime farmland by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Most of the industry in Calhoun County is related to processing agricultural goods. As of 2010, 34.7% of the population had a high school diploma or alternative credential. There are 351 total businesses in the County that employ 1,542 persons. Due to the lack of jobs for the 6,504 population many commute to surrounding areas within the region for employment. Calhoun State

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Prison is located in Calhoun County (Morgan) and is the primary correctional facility for the region. Within the County 40.9% of the workforce has white collar jobs, 27.4% have service related jobs and the remaining 31.7% have blue collar jobs. It is evident that Calhoun County is an agriculturally dominated county by the percentage of farming, forestry, and fishing employment relative to both the state and the nation. Over the last ten years, the number of people employed in the field of farming in Calhoun has dropped drastically which is following a similar trend in the state and the nation as small family farms decrease and large corporations take over.

Calhoun County has a significant amount of recreational land and facilities, it is important to note that the majority of these facilities are private and somewhat exclusive. Citizens in the county have limited choices in terms of retail shopping and it results in a diminished tax base. Most people drive to Albany, GA or Dothan, Alabama to shop. One of the successful efforts that have benefitted Calhoun County is the annual “High Cotton Yard Sale” that runs 65 miles along Highway 37. This yard sale crosses three counties and attracts thousands annually.

Recently, the one Rural County Hospital in Calhoun County closed. This hospital was located in Arlington, GA. Like many of the rural hospitals throughout Georgia there simply was not enough capital and usage to enable the hospital to remain profitable. The County has since taken over the Emergency Medical Services for the County and residents have to be transported out of the county for care.


• Low cost for land and labor • Access to water • Small hometown feel • Majority of the employment in the education, health and social service industry • Cost of living index is 80.5 %( low, U.S. average is 100%)

Weaknesses and Threats:

• Uneducated workforce • Lack of resources to afford Economic Development professional • Lack of community participation in Economic Development • Small population and persistent poverty

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Colquitt County

The population of Colquitt County is 46,102, which is a population increase of 2,641 from the 2000 Census. The poverty rate has grown from 19.2% to 26.7% from 2010-2013. The median household income is $32,484. Twenty-eight percent (28.2%) of the population does not have a high school diploma. With its long growing season and varied types of soils, the county has traditionally been a state leader in agricultural production. Colquitt County currently has the largest farm gate in Georgia. Despite the county's agricultural strength, manufacturing has replaced farming as the largest employment sector in the county. There are seven cities in Colquitt County; Berlin, Doerun, Ellenton, Funston, Moultrie, Norman Park and Riverside. Berlin is a small town in Colquitt County, named after a German city, and is considered to be a speed trap. The City of Doerun is home to the GA Annual May Day Festival and is sponsored by the Doerun Booster Association. Ellenton, Funston, and Riverside are small towns located within Colquitt County. The City of Norman Park is home to the Georgia Baptist Conference Center. Colquitt County is located within the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission area, a very rural and agriculturally oriented portion of Georgia. Agribusiness and textile manufacturing remain the most significant contributors to the region’s economy. Colquitt County is ranked as the 40th most populous county in the state and is the region’s third most populous county, following Dougherty and Thomas Counties. Moultrie is a city of 14,268 in a county of 46,102 people covering 547.5 square miles. Colquitt County also has one of the largest concentrations of Hispanic or migrant workers in Georgia, an important asset to the local farmers. It is estimated the county has between 2,000 to 5,000 migrant workers, depending on the season. The majority of these workers are available on a temporary work permit and after five years some become regular U.S. citizens. Migrant farm workers are important to the local economy and are generally undercounted during the census. It is expected that the historical growth trend of the minority population in the county will continue. In contrast, the unincorporated portion of the county has experienced a reverse trend.

The Annual Sunbelt Agricultural Expo is Colquitt County’s largest attraction and adds millions of dollars to the local economy. The Expo, held annually in October, draws over 300,000 visitors annually and is the largest outdoor farm show in North America with field demonstrations, and more than 1,000 corporate and private exhibitors this year marked the 38th Annual event. This event has evolved into an incredible economic development opportunity for the City of Moultrie and Colquitt County.

The Sanderson Farms project brought in 1, 500 jobs for the county, exceeding expectations of all involved. That impact has translated into $90 million of investment from Sanderson farms, more than $50 million investment from producers in the region, a

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30-percent increase in sales tax collections over the past two years and a 7.3 percent growth in the tax digest.

Educational attainment has grown in Colquitt County. A comprehensive effort by the entire community, to include the business community, is significantly improving workforce education and readiness. Results certified by the Georgia Board of Education gave Colquitt County High School (CCHS) a 93% graduation rate for 2015, making CCHS a state leader in that category. The number of adults without elementary education has dropped, as the number of adults with some college or college degrees has grown. However, educational attainment is growing faster at the state level than in Colquitt County. The city of Moultrie is catching up to the state level of adults with college degrees somewhat faster than the county as a whole. Colquitt County is home to Southern Regional Technical College that has over 2,000 students. Brewton-Parker has a 2-year extension degree program, and also Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College which is located on the square in downtown Moultrie.


• Large regional workforce available • Large Agricultural presence with high farm gate value • Home to the “ Sunbelt Agricultural Expo” • Easy access to Florida and other southeastern markets • Access to four lane highway. HWY 319


• Uneducated, unskilled labor

• Losing jobs to overseas competition and advanced technology

• Farm labor laws threaten ability to gather crops during harvest season

Goals:

• Support local and existing industries • Resurface the runaway at Spence Fields (3rd largest in the state) • Continue to support the “Sunbelt Ag Expo”, Southern Regional Technical College

and Spence Field Airport

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• Recruit new industry and promote industrial sites at Spence Field • Develop market for “second-class” agricultural products to increase profits and

reduce waste • Promote Colquitt County quality of life to attract new residents from the region

Decatur County

The population of Decatur County is 27,842, which is a population decrease of 622 from the 2010 Census. Other municipalities in Decatur include Attapulgus, Brinson and Climax. Attapulgus has a population of 533 and is the 2nd largest city in Decatur County. Brinson is a small town in Decatur County and has a population of 215. The town of Climax is located at the highest point of the railroad between Savannah Georgia and the Chattahoochee River. The poverty rate has grown from 24.1% to 31.9% from 2010-2013. The median household income is $30,619. Twenty-five percent (24.4%) of the population does not have a high school diploma. Decatur County is the nation's leader in the production of Fuller's Earth, a type of clay with varied chemical uses. Once used for bleaching petroleum and cleaning grease out of wool, Fuller's Earth is currently used as cat litter and as an additive to insecticides and cements.

The City of Bainbridge, Georgia’s first inland port has a facility that supports barge transportation. Forested land in Decatur County accounts for 255,000 acres. Forested land is found throughout Decatur County, with a large concentration on either side of the Flint River. This Industrial park boasts a nine-hole golf course, an airport and several industries including BP-Amoco and Coca Cola. All of these industries have plants that are located within the overall park. The surrounding uses are mostly agricultural.

Decatur County is divided by the Flint River, which flows to meet the Chattahoochee. Together they form the Apalachicola River which flows to the Gulf of Mexico. At the junction of the two rivers, the Jim Woodruff Dam forms Lake Seminole. Seminole State Park, in Bainbridge, is located on the banks of Lake Seminole. This 37,500-acre lake attracts sport fishing, national tournament fishing, deer and duck hunting. The park is home to the gopher tortoise, the only native tortoise in Georgia. Other area attractions include Cheney Griffin Park, the Boat Basin that includes lengthy, scenic walking trails and a camp ground, and Willis Park. Lake Seminole is widely regarded as one of the nation’s best lakes for largemouth bass fishing. A system of locks at the dam allows barge traffic to travel between the inland port at Bainbridge and the Gulf of Mexico.

Decatur County is home to several annual festivals. The River Town Days held in the middle of March, July 4th Celebrations, Bikefest, and many other annual events. The

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Town of Climax plays host to the annual Swine Time Festival each November. This lighthearted event recognizes the contribution of pork products to the region’s economy. There is also the Decatur County Fall Festival and Fair in October in Bainbridge. These festivals bring in thousands of people into Decatur County each year and contribute positively to the economy.

Bainbridge is also home to Bainbridge State College, a unit of the University System of Georgia, with an enrollment of 2,341 in the fall of 2014 and has other campus locations in Early and Miller Counties as well as offering classes on-line.


• Working together

• Availability of land for redevelopment

• Access to the Flint River and Lake Seminole

• Low union activity

• Intended port capable of barge traffic

• Proximity to the Florida markets


• Highest unemployment in the region

• Lack of skilled labor force

• Low education attainment level of workforce • Persistent poverty level • Lack of regional collaboration • Income disparity among residents

Goals:

• Diversify- not very diverse

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• Continue to partner with the local school system and Bainbridge College to improve workforce skills

• Recruit new industry to reduce unemployment rate • Develop the Riverwalk and encourage commercial development • Expand existing industries • Develop marketing approach to attract visitors to the community and attract

specific industries • Promote lack of traffic congestion and access to major highways for industry

attraction • Develop value added farm jobs • Promote Decatur County as an economical place to transact business

Dougherty County

The population of Dougherty County is 92,407, which is a population decrease of 2,158 from the 2010 Census. The poverty rate has decreased from 33.8% (2010 Census) to 31.2% from 2013. The median household income is $31,671. Nineteen percent (19.3%) of the adult population does not have a high school diploma. Dougherty County, which has more pecan trees than any other county in the nation, is a strong contributor to South Georgia's claim as the pecan capital of the world. Annually, the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, the Southwest Georgia Chamber Council, Georgia Allies, and the Georgia Chamber host corporate guests from the United States as well as other parts of the world for the Feather Hunt, which is three days of world-class quail hunting and southern hospitality. Dougherty County is the home of the Marine Corps Logistic Base that employs 3,300 people and has a payroll of $97 million. The RC was successful in obtaining a $159,000 grant in 2005 to perform an economic diversification strategy.

Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital is one of Dougherty County’s largest employers with nearly 3,500 employees. The Dougherty County Board of Education employs over 2,800 people. Proctor and Gamble employs over 1,300 people. The Georgia Forestry Commission considers Dougherty County’s economy is approximately 25-percent forestry dependent with surrounding counties being even more dependent. Agriculture has a similar impact on Dougherty County’s economy which drives both the rural economy, as well as much of Albany’s commercial and industrial activity. As with any industrial activity, agriculture and forestry are anchored in the region by a set of nature,

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human, and capital assets that provide a set of competitive advantages. Albany and Dougherty County is the regional economic hub for agricultural and forestry-related business. Dougherty County has been a direct beneficiary of this industry integration by virtue of its upstream and downstream linkages. This demonstrates that Albany/Dougherty County is a logical place for relocation and/or expansion of agricultural and forest industry capacity. Albany has an infrastructure and labor force built around agricultural and forest products that contributes to a high return to the community from production and harvest activity.

The City of Albany offers several notable accredited institutions of higher learning at Albany State University (4 year), Troy University (4 year), LaGrange College (4 year), Darton State College (2 year), and Albany Technical College. Just recently, a merger has been approved by the Board of Regents to consolidate Albany State University and Darton College which will become effective on January 17, 2017. The Board of Regents approved a set of consolidation principles for Georgia colleges and universities back in 2011. The approved six principles that will be utilized in assessing potential consolidations are increasing opportunities to raise education attainment levels, improve accessibility, regional identity, and compatibility, duplication of academic programs while optimizing access to instruction, create significant potential for economies of scale and hope, enhance regional economic development and streamline administrative services while maintaining or improving service level and quality.


• Low cost of living which is 18.5% lower than the national average • Enormous amount of land available, buildings and regional destination • Strong business climate, existing industries and competitive incentives • Incredible transportation infrastructure and location • Large workforce available • Access to institutions of higher education, university and two local colleges ;

home to Albany State University, Darton College and Albany Technical College • Water access and dwelling of one of the world’s most prolific aquifers • Great quality of life • Regional Partnerships established • Recruitment of industries • Marketing and branding of the community • Industrial hub of Southwest Georgia • House the 2nd largest cargo airport in the state

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• Rated 1st in the state of GA for low utilities cost • Access to four lane highways to get population from point A to B or vice versa • Known as the “Quail” and “Pecan” Capitals of the World • Providers of Quality Healthcare and Healthcare Hub of Southwest Georgia • 8th largest MSA in GA(165, 440) • Best known industries include Procter & Gamble, MillerCoors, Coats& Clark,

Georgia Pacific. Mars Chocolate North America, and Pfizer. Also, home to the Albany Marine and Logistic Base

• Workforce with good work ethics • Exports keeping Albany factories thriving


• High unemployment rate • Racial and Socioeconomic issues • Perception and image • Public education system(K-12) and Education attainment ; low high school

graduation rate • Declining population • Labor costs, infrastructure and competition • Existing industry contraction • Business climate • Large portion of the city in flood hazard area • Availability of affordable housing • Lack of cohesive development plan • Education- Skill level for the workforce • Availability of funds to leverage with private partnership • High poverty rate in the city • Inability to retain, recruit young leaders and professionals

Goals:

• Develop plans for business retention and expansion • Continue to implement a strong marketing plan to highlight the Dougherty County

community and what it has to offer ; rebrand Dougherty County • Develop and assist local entrepreneurs with training and financing available • Identify and market industrial properties • Redevelop blighted areas • Engage state economic development leaders

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• Continue with the partners networks, job training workshops and • Support existing industries, enhance relationships with and recruit industry

suitable for the location • Share successes in the community • Recruit retirees to the community • Identify key economic development partners and leverage opportunities • Identify a collective strategic visioning for the community • Continue with the collaboration among public and private entities • Improve service delivery and the economic development /prosperity of the

citizens

Early County

The population of Early County is 11,008, which is a population decrease of 1,346 from the 2000 Census. Early County is home to the cities of Arlington, Blakely, Jakin and the town of Damascus. The poverty rate has grown from 27.1% to 31.6% during 2010-2013. The median household income is $28,853.00. Twenty-seven percent (27.0%) of the adult population does not have a high school diploma. As with many counties in Southwest Georgia, peanut farming is a vital component of Early County's economy. Early County is the largest peanut quota holding county in the nation and the City of Blakely is nicknamed the “Peanut Capital of the World”. Damascus is a small town with a population of less than 254 and is the site of the first Briar patch Music Festival since 2010. Jakin lies at the southernmost end of early county and depends on farming and turpentine production to benefit the economic growth. Early County is home to Kolomoki Mounds State Park and the Coheelee Creek Covered Bridge. Early County is one of the oldest counties in the state and discovered in 1825. There are approximately 12,065 people living in Early County. It is the 24th largest county in the state having 511 square miles. Early County lies in the Atlantic Plain and Coastal Plain Province physiographic classifications. A small portion of the county located in the northwestern corner is located in the Fall Line Red Hills classification. The majority of the county lies in the Lime Sink Region of the Dougherty Plain. Early County is located within the Chattahoochee and Flint River Basins. Early County is an agricultural community with 90% of its land devoted to farming or timber. With 33% of its jobs in manufacturing, however, the county qualifies as a manufacturing community. This diversity offers many opportunities for employment. Early County is located near the source of many raw materials such as abundant land and water resources. The county is the largest producer of peanuts in the nation. Although more acres of cotton are planted than peanuts, peanuts are the number one

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cash crop. Opportunities exist for further processing of these raw materials locally prior to their leaving the county.

A solid infrastructure exists for expanding economic opportunities with a 200 acre industrial park, low ad valorem tax rate, and city owned utilities. Early County has a local airport with a 5,000 foot runway, and barge access on the Chattahoochee River.


• Wonderful Education system • Availability of land • Located on Highway 27 and accessible to railroad terminals for transportation

and located near a river • Low cost of living and reasonable taxes • Quality Healthcare • Good quality of living and small hometown community


• Lack of skilled labor • Population decline due to lack of employment opportunities • Outsourcing of available jobs • Rural community with persistent poverty • Lack of available resources

Grady County

The population of Grady County is 25,011(2010), which is a population increase of 1,528 from the 2000 Census. The poverty rate has grown from 27.9% to 30.1% during 2010-2013. The median household income is $30,571.00. Twenty-five percent (25.9%) of the adult population does not have a high school diploma. Grady County has a multitude of cultural and historical resources. The primary industry is agriculture.

The area’s two industrial parks are underutilized and currently can offer 267 fully serviced acres for prospective clients. The county’s economic structure is more diverse than that of its neighbors, out of a work population of 10,068 some 3,169 or 31% are employed out of Grady County. This represents a loss of tax income for the county overall and indicates a need for further economic diversification.

There are a few weaknesses in Grady County. There are a high percentage of mobile homes in housing stock (32%), a need to develop transportation options; high levels of

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poverty, 36% of households earn less than $20,000, and low levels of educational achievement, with around 30% not completing high school.

There is also much opportunity in Grady County. Grady County is building a 960 Acre fishing and recreational lake north of Highway 84 just west of the city limits of Cairo at a total cost in the range of 20 million. The dam is scheduled to be completed by the end of the 2015 and the lake bed has already been cleared to establish the underwater fisheries.

The county owns an additional 1931 acres surrounding the lake to develop over time with a great deal of thought and quality planning. It will likely include: residential areas, rave parking areas, splash pad aquatic center areas, sandy beach areas and a great opportunity for retiree recruitment for the region. The economic impact of this project for Grady County will be enormous as well as having a regional impact.


• Workforce with good work ethics • Diversified industrial base • Lack access to Highway 84 for transportation • Low cost of living and reasonable taxes • Recruit businesses that relocated from the area due to past circumstances • Agriculture and Silviculture


• High poverty level • Median household income less than $20,000 (bottom of the scale) • Lack of available resources • Lack of regional collaboration • Low educational attainment

Goals:

• Establish a targeting effort for Florida business recruitment • Target list for coaching leadership • Increase the education of the workforce • Implement a new Economic development strategic plan • Develop a strategy to attract industry to the area • Conduct a business retention and expansion program

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• Encourage communication among community leadership • Develop diverse leadership • Increase retail along HW 84 sector • Improve access to quality healthcare for all citizens

Lee

Lee County has experience significant growth over the past few years. It is located next to Dougherty County which is the 8th largest Metropolitan Statistical Area in the state. The population for the County in 2014 was 29,191 and 2010 population was 28,293 which represents an increase of 3.2 %.

Lee County Schools are among the best in the region and have an extremely low dropout rate. It is a bedroom community of sorts and the quality of life is good. Lee County is currently experiencing significant growth and development. The potential for this to continue is good. There have not been any impact fees with the cost of commercial and industrial development in County. They will need to grow the tax base in order to support the rapid growth in residential areas. The newly completed North Leesburg Bypass from the Leslie Highway to Highway 19 opened up for traffic on October 22, 2015. This bypass project has been in development for more than 10 years, consisting of 1.7 miles stretch of highway that will reroute traffic between State Route 195 over to US 19. Traffic congestion downtown will be reduced and a safer passage going to and from schools will be provided.

Lee County is a unique blend of residential, commercial, and industrial development with a traditional rural flair. Interspersed with creeks, lakes, plantations, and historical sites, the community offers excellent recreational opportunities that take full advantage of the moderate climate and beautiful landscape. From a multitude of children’s programs to the newly acquired Grand Island Golf Course and Racquet Club, Lee County has activities for all ages.

It is the fastest growing county in the region and state, which recorded a population increase of 39.1 percent between 1980 and 1990 and 131.5 percent between 1970 and 1990. Lee County’s population grew from 16,316 in 1990 to 24,757 in 2000, according to US Census figures, an increase of almost 35 percent. For several years, Lee was a high growth community however, the rate of growth slowed between 2008 and 2015. Lee County continues to attract many residents form Albany and Dougherty County. It is estimated that Lee County will continue to lead the region with very high rates of growth.

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Even though Lee County has had and will continue to have a growth in population it could possibly cause problems. Based on existing trends, the population of young and middle-aged families with children will continue to increase from about 28,800 in 2005 to an estimate of 37,000 by 2025. Currently, the largest population group is comprised of: 25-44 year olds representing 34% of the population, 45-64 year olds representing 34% of the population and 14 or younger representing 25% of the population. This population increase presents a challenge in that most young families have school-age children and may require more community services including education, healthcare, recreation, and transportation along with housing. The county has limited job opportunities for skilled and unskilled labor, professional and managerial. Government agencies including the school system and agriculture are the major employers along with limited retail and industrial jobs. Approximately 85% of the community’s residents work in neighboring counties, predominantly Dougherty County. Lee County has the lowest levels of poverty in the region. Persons living below the poverty level are 11.2 %, compared with the statewide average of 18.2%.


• Excellent school system • Low cost of living and labor cost ; growing affluent population • No blighted conditions in the county • Proximity location to the 8th largest MSA in the state(shopping, cultural,

recreational, medical, and continuing education opportunities) • Reasonable taxes, availability of superior health care, low electrical rates • Expansion of water and sewer to accommodate industrial and commercial

development • Upscale Industrial park already developed with 25 remaining acres • “Retail Pull Factor” for Dougherty county Area which is the 2nd strongest in the

state • Existence of continuing education opportunities with the presence of Albany

State University, Darton College and Albany Technical College • An Existing excitement within the business and school community which

communicates a good community to Live, Work, Play and Invest • An active and vibrant local Chamber of Commerce which exemplifies to potential

visitors that Lee County is a Good Place to do Business” Come and Join the Club” where Live Works Well Here in Lee County

• Perception of a Good Quality Life within the community • Opening of the Forrester and Westover extension that will improve drive times

between existing commercial districts

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• Development of Agri Tourism • Provides additional access to Kinchafoonee and Muckalee Creeks for tourism

opportunities • Attraction of retirees to bring in disposable dollars for circulation and possible

entrepreneurship passions • Low crime rates


• High cost to local community to “keep up with demand for services” • Ability to expand the local tax base • Lack of available vacant buildings • Increasing cost of Agricultural Operations • Limited transportation access for industrial investments • Small inventory of developed industrial properties • Perception of limited available trained labor within the region • High Healthcare cost • Workers compensation “payout” within our MSA is extensively high • Continual low unemployment rates within Lee County as compared to region, state,

and national • Competition from neighboring counties for Industrial and Commercial investments

due to enticements • Tier IV Community designation which means limited state and federal assistance • Demographics prevent Lee from attracting upscale retail, hotels and restaurants • Manufacturing opportunities going global • Many site selection consultants consider SW Georgia suitable for poultry processing

and animal rendering plants rather than technology jobs

Goals:

• Continue with the expansion of infrastructure within strategically located corridors where commercial opportunities exists

• Continue to promote Lee County’s Strength’s & Opportunities throughout the state and country to potential commercial developers and retail investors

• Continue to work with commercial realtors to facilitate new commercial locations • Continue to work with commercial developers that have strong relationships with

National Retail chains for recruiting investments

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• Continue with the campaign to remind existing industrial entities that Lee County has available properties for relocation and keep state developers aware of properties

• Continue with Lee County public relations campaign of superior “Quality of Life” to other Regions and a “Business friendly Community”

• Work regionally to attract retirees • Increase access to Kinchafoonee and Muckalee creeks • Develop the Grand Island Country Club area

Miller

Colquitt, Georgia is the county seat of Miller County and home to Swamp Gravy, Georgia’s official folk life play and annual Mayhaw Festival that attracts nearly 20,000 visitors. Since 1992, Swamp Gravy has toured all over the United States and South America. It has a permanent home in a cotton warehouse which has been converted to a 284 seat theater. According to the 2010 Census, there are 6,125 residents in Miller County. It is one of the least populated counties in the region.

Like most counties in the region, it is heavily dependent on agriculture and has a number of industries related to agricultural products. Residents often think of Colquitt, the county seat, as the “Mayhaw Capital of the World".

A may-haw is a small, red berry often used for jams and jellies. Colquitt is the sites of a 23-foot Red Oak tree that sculptor Peter Toth carved into the head of an Indian brave. Also in memory of Native American Indian culture is the Native American and Early Pioneer Museum that houses more than 100,000 artifacts. Colquitt has become the region’s leader in tourism and is heavily invested in cultural activities to attract visitors and increase the tax base.

As far as we can determine at this time, Colquitt, Georgia has one of the largest hand painted murals in the United States. The 27,000 square foot structure is owned by Birdsong Peanut Company and is used to store peanuts. It serves as a gateway of sorts to the City and is breathtakingly beautiful. Miller County like other counties is facing economic issues. Most of the residents work outside of the County. Nearly 30 % of the population hasn’t completed high school or GED; and a 25.2 % level of poverty according to the 2010 Census.

Miller County has capitalized on the arts and the historic city square. Hwy 27 runs through the center of the county which attracts substantial traffic going from Florida to Tennessee and returning. The Georgia Department of Transportation will expand this highway to four lanes. The 31 million dollar project has been in the making for more

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than 25 years and included 46 counties at the table. These counties expect to self-generate $1.8 billion in new revenue dedicated to local transportation improvements.


• Strong and vibrant Arts Council • Good quality of life • Small hometown community • High speed internet access for city and county • Tallest mural maybe in the United States • Tourism industry centered around “Swamp Gravy” • Agricultural related processing and products • Low cost for land and labor • Working to promote town square business opportunities


• Signage availability off Highway 27 • Unskilled workforce • Persistent poverty • Sparse population

Goals:

• Continue to support Swamp Gravy and the mural campaign • Better communication and availability of Community calendar • Website improvement • Increase participation of Chamber of Commerce with the community • Expand existing industries and recruit agricultural related industries • Improve the infrastructure of water, sewer and roads • Schedule more events and develop marketing strategy for highlighting local

businesses “ Georgia Grown”’ ; increase incentives • Improve the quality of Life for local residents • Complete a survey of community needs

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Mitchell

The City of Camilla, the county seat of Mitchell, is located exactly in the center of the region. The Flint River is the county’s western border and has the U.S. Highway 19 corridor. Mitchell County has a population of 24,086 and is one of the growing counties in Southwest Georgia. Mitchell County is home to four incorporated communities (Baconton, Camilla, Pelham, and Sale City) and a number of unincorporated ones.

Mainly focused on agriculture, Mitchell County has one of the largest farm gates in the state. Like Colquitt County, this is directly related to chicken farming. The Keystone Group, which is the largest employer in the county, has about 2,500 employees and contracts with hundreds of area farmers to process about 1,000,000 chickens each week. The Equity group provides good wages to uneducated and unskilled workers, of which the county has many.

In 2008, Mitchell County became home to the South’s largest corn-based ethanol plant, First United Ethanol, LLC, which employs about 60 workers and produces 100 million gallons of ethanol every year. While agriculture remains the primary industry within the county, or farmers have diversified into non-conventional agriculture such as alligator hide production, aquaculture, and eco-tourism. Several cooperatives have been formed in various industries and vegetable production/processing has become a fast-growing and profitable enterprise.

Agribusiness is Mitchell County’s largest industry, with well-known names such as Keystone Foods and Southeast Milk Incorporated. Of the nation’s counties, Mitchell County is in the top 10 in pecan production. Two energy–related industries joined our corporate roster in recent years. A corn to fuel manufacturer, Southwest Georgia Ethanol, and Camilla Solar, a solar power plant, chose Mitchell County as the place to grow their businesses.

Mitchell County is one of the premier locations for quail hunting. Businesses on retreat and hunting connoisseurs from around the world travel to our plantations to enjoy hunting and our local hospitality

Like other counties in the region, Mitchell County has a high number of adults living in poverty (30.6%) and a very high number of adults without a high school credentials (34.0%). More than 25% of the residents are living below the poverty level and almost 70 percent (79.9%) of the population graduated from high school according to the last Census.

The City of Baconton, birthplace of the paper-shell pecan industry in Georgia, is located in Mitchell County at the crossroads of U.S. Highway 19 and GA Hwy 93, 16 miles south of Albany, 278 miles south of Atlanta. Baconton was incorporated in 1903 and the City

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was one square mile (sides were 2000 yards and the old town well was the center). The community of Baconton is known for the highly marketable paper-shell pecan. Baconton City Hall is housed in the historic Jackson Davis House located just off Highway 19. The house, built in 1891 is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is an excellent example of Victorian architecture. It is well worth a visit by tourists passing through. Baconton is a part of the Mitchell County School District and is served by North Mitchell County Elementary School and Baconton Community Charter Schools.

Pelham is located on the crossroads of US Highway 19 and State Route 93 and is approximately 38 miles south of Albany and 26 miles north of Thomasville. Pelham’s Wildlife Festival, held on the first Saturday in October, and attracts over 12,000 visitors annually. It is also home to the Pelham Jamboree held every Saturday night beginning at 6:30 p.m. Other events such as a “Slice of Summer” and the Pelham Wildlife Art Auction complete the warm community feel present in Pelham. North Pelham Industrial Park is a 43 acre privately owned park located in the city limits of Pelham with 30 acres available. Surrounding land uses include agriculture, commercial, and residential. The park is zoned Industrial, with a Class 6 Fire Insurance rating. The Hand Trading Company was built in 1916 and during its heyday attracted shoppers throughout Southwestern Georgia. This beautiful building has been well maintained and is currently being restored.

Sale City is a quaint town in Mitchell with a population of 380 according to 2010 Census. It has a rustic downtown with two very popular restaurants. The City is experience a small amount of growth in the downtown area. Businesses are expanding and the City’s infrastructure is trying to keep up. If this continues City leaders will have to be innovative to strike a balance between finance and growth.


• Location • Transportation (rails) and airport accessibility • Great existing industries • Great base for growth but need more land available • Low cost of loving • Agriculture community


• Limited land available for expansion • Reluctant to change • Lack of teamwork or collaboration

http://www.mitchellcountyga.net/visitors/localevents.html

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• Persistent poverty • Unskilled workforce • Low education attainment level • Lack of community involvement in economic development

Goals:

• Create a marketing plan for the community • Expand existing industry and recruit more industry for creating jobs • Improve infrastructure of water, sewer and roads • Develop more industrial sites • Encourage team collaboration and change • Improve the education of the workforce • Promote business friendly attitude and open to new businesses

Seminole

Seminole County is located in the extreme southwest corner of Georgia, a short distance from Alabama and Florida. Seminole County was named for the Seminole Indians. It is located above one of the largest known aquifers in the world. The county seat is Donalsonville. According to census data, Seminole County lost 7 percent of its population from 2000 to 2010. Seminole County is known as the “Gateway to Lake Seminole,” a large lake maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers where the Flint and Chattahoochee Rivers come together to form the Apalachicola River. Lake Seminole is recognized as one of the best bass fishing lakes in the country. Named twice as one of the top 100 small hospitals in the nation, Donalsonville Hospital is a state of the art medical facility with 12 doctors on staff. The Industrial Park has 18 acres available for prospective businesses. A few of the top employers include Donalsonville Hospital, JH Harvey Co., Lewis Carter Manufacturing and Three Notch Electric Membership. Seminole County has the opportunity to become a retirement community. Much of Seminole County has been deemed by the United States Department of Agriculture as prime farm land. Innovative uses of agriculture land and products could expand agricultural profitability. The county owns one of the very few self-supporting airports in Georgia. This facility is jet capable, has 5,000 of bituminous runway, aircraft tie downs, hangers, and a lighted runway.

Donalsonville is the county seat of Seminole county and has a population of 2,650. It was originally part of Decatur County and a prominent business man paved the way for the City’s growth when he built the first lumber mill in Donalsonville. The Olive Theatre is

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in an old building downtown, which has been renovated and hosts the local talents and the murals present on a few of the downtown buildings depict the main industry in the county. The Harvest Festival, hosted in October, is a vast part of Donalsonville’s culture and supports the local industry of agriculture. There are other attractions, including the Christmas Tour of Homes and the PRCA Rodeo, that are held in Donalsonville.

Iron City is a small town within the County and folk lore has it hast the name came about when a new well was being dug and hit a spot of iron ore. The citizens thought the discovery would bring great wealth to the people of the town and the economy was booming with new construction. Since that time the economy has declined with only a grocery store, gas station and hardware store. The major employer is Greene Poultry, which employs about 25 people and a local mechanic shop. The town is a small rural community that relies greatly on farming.


• Improvement of downtown community • Implementation of “Betterway Beautification” and park development project • Agricultural community • Access to Lake Seminole, Chattahoochee and Flint Rivers • Low cost of labor and labor • Charter school certification • Population decline


• Unskilled workforce for labor • Persistent poverty • Lack of community collaboration • Young population migrating to other communities for employment opportunities • Economic development planning

Goals:

• Recruitment of Chamber leadership • Encouraging collaboration among community leaders • Recruitment of retirees • Recruitment of additional jobs-retail or industry

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• Support Lake Seminole • Continue to support the development of downtown • Improve infrastructure of sewer, roads and technology • Support CSX and improve rail access • Development of workforce • Acquire industrial land

Terrell

Terrell County is part of the Albany MSA and has a population of 9,132. From 2000 to 2010, the county lost 15% of its population. Terrell County has been primarily agricultural since its settlement. Most of the County's farm income is from cultivated crops, such as peanuts, corn, cotton and soybeans. Farming incomes are derived from truck crops, livestock and forest products. The Highway 520 corridor is the only four lane corridor through Terrell County and the cities of Parrott, Dawson and Sasser. The highway is an invaluable asset to Terrell County primarily for economic development purposes. Terrell County and the cities within all have infrastructure capacities to handle new development of all types within their respective communities. The cities all have a historic areas present and the City of Dawson has a Historic Downtown that include Main Street and Dawson Theatre. The County has a number of Industrial Properties that are waiting for tenants to occupy complete with infrastructure.

Like other counties in the region, Terrell County has a high population of adults living in poverty (36.3%) and a high population of adults without a high school credential (34.2%). The median household income is $32,855.00. There are four incorporated towns in Terrell County; Bronwood, Dawson, (the county seat), Parrott and Sasser. Brownwood was originally called Brown’s Station and was incorporated in 1883 and is located six miles of Dawson. Dawson is named after United States Senator, William C. Dawson and incorporated in 1875. Parrot is located about ten miles northwest of Dawson and is a picturesque small town that has been the setting for western movies, including the Long Riders (1980). Sasser is located in the southeastern section of the county, incorporated in 1890 and named after pioneer citizen, Abraham Sasser. It was once a thriving farming area, but agriculture has been replaced as the primary source of income by services, manufacturing, and retail trade.

Terrell County and its cities are moving forward to address issues such as revitalization of downtown and the promotion of commercial development. They are not unlike other communities in that they want to attract industry and create jobs.

The nearest metropolitan shopping center is Albany, in neighboring Dougherty County. During the past several years, a concerted effort has been made by the Terrell County Historic Preservation Society and the Better Hometown Dawson Task Force to increase

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cultural awareness, improve the appearance of streets and buildings, and preserve places of historical importance. Renovations have recently been completed on the courthouse, the Carnegie Library building, and the Garden Club House. The old McDowell Building has been remodeled; it is now the headquarters for the Terrell County Chamber of Commerce. Work is scheduled to begin soon on the old cotton warehouse known as the Hill and Hill Building.


• Low cost of living • Agricultural community • Access to water • Low cost for land and available labor • Industrial properties available for tenants and compete with infrastructure


• Persistent poverty • Low education attainment level • Lack of cooperation among community leaders • Unskilled workforce • Economic development planning

Goals:

• Support the industrial park and acquire more public land • Coordinate and streamline economic development efforts • Expand existing industries • Promote youth development • Develop a higher quality workforce • Support and enhance the Dawson- Terrell County airport • Promotion of downtown area and commercial development

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Thomas

Thomas County has one of the largest populations in the region (44,720). It borders Florida and is just a short distance from Tallahassee. Known for its rich history and sprawling plantations, Thomasville, the county seat, was a popular winter resort destination during the late 1800s. More than a century later, Thomasville continues to have a vibrant down-town and a bustling economy, which is a reflection of their commitment to the city’s heritage and historic preservation. In 2010, the population was 18,413. Thomas County is home to 122 industries and has one of the strongest economies in the region. In addition, Thomas County is home to several estates listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including Pebble Hill Plantation and the Lapham-Patterson House, among others. Other incorporated cities in Thomas County are Barwick, Boston, Coolidge, Meigs, Ochlocknee and Pavo. Thomas County has a median household income of $34,035.00, an individual below the poverty level of 26.5% and 81.8% high school graduation rate.


• Strong and vibrant Arts Council • Active and Flourishing downtown area • Home to more than 71 private hunting plantations ; wealthy landowners • Regional hub for shopping • Rich cultural heritage • Archbold Hospital • Excellent education system and home to Thomas University and Southern

Regional Technical College • New industrial park added to the Red Hill Business District • Known as the “City of Roses”


• Recruitment of industries • Location to major highways • Community connections for customers expansion; young people attraction • Persistent poverty • Unskilled workforce • Difficulty to recover from the economic recession

Goals:

• Completion of the Red Hill Business District by the end of 2015 • Industrial properties – upgrade to gradient ready sites

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• Recruitment of industries with 50 or more employees • Develop a website for the Thomasville area • Developing economic development plan for recruiting industry • Continue to develop the area for tourism • Support Archbold Hospital, Genesis Food Processing Park and the State Street

project in Coolidge • Continue to diversify the economy • Improve infrastructure of water, sewer, and technology

• Expansion of existing industries

Worth

Worth County, Georgia’s 18th largest county land area, part of the Albany MSA, and lies just east of Dougherty County on the edge of the region. It is called the “Peanut Capital of the World,” and Agriculture is the dominant industry in Worth County. Cities in Worth County include Poulan, Sumner, Warwick, Oakfield Incorporated and Sylvester, the county seat. The county has a population of 21,679, just barely lower than their 2000 population of 21,967. The City of Poulan is the county second largest municipality and has two famous mansions built in the 1900’s, the Big Poke and Little Poke mansions on Possum Lane. Sylvester hosts the annual Georgia Peanut Festival in October in celebration of peanuts, the state’s official crop. Warwick, on Lake Blackshear, hosts the National Grits Festival in April. Sumner is home to a branch of the Southern Regional Technical College system and hosts its egg festival in September. It is the fastest growing municipality in the county. Agriculture has always been the economic mainstay of the region. Even in the 1990s, the average size of farms in-creased, with an increase in the market value of agricultural products sold. Seventy four percent of the Worth’s workforce commute to other counties to work, but its largest employers includes ConAgra Foods, Birdsong Peanuts, Phoebe Worth Medical Center, Walmart, the Worth County Board of Education and National Pecan Company. The median household income of Worth County is $39,205, high school graduation percentage of 73.9% and persons living below poverty level percentage of 26.7%.


• Agricultural community • Reasonable costs for land and labor • Excellent school system and high school graduation rate at 80% • Population understands industry sustainability • Strategic location • Gradient ready sites availability for business location (1/4 in the region)

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• Bedroom community to the city of Albany and Dougherty county • Good quality of life • Existing industries expansion over the past year


• Lack of skilled labor force • Small retail outlets • Locations proximity not fronting Highway 75 • Airport availability for commercial landing or cargo shipments • Limited hotels • Dry county • Generational poverty • Lack of resources to provide services

Goals:

• Development of the city airport • Develop a marketing strategy for Worth County and what it has to offer • Promote and develop a skilled workforce • Continue to support and develop the 84 acreage industrial park • Make Sylvester a wireless hotspot • Conduct a hotel & motel feasibility study • Create an Urban redevelopment Plan and Opportunity Zone • Convert unused rail line to bike path from Sylvester to Tifton • Improvement of infrastructure of water, sewer, roads and technology

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Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Regional Council

Robert McDaniel

Executive Director

Suzanne Angell Deputy Director

Brenda Wade Barbara Reddick Grants Administrator Senior Planner

Heidi Penny Heather White Michelle Richardson Stephen O’Neil GIS Manager Administrative Assistant Transportation Coordinator Planner II

Jeff Hamilton Helen Williams Laura Davis Kimberly Brooks GIS Assistant Reception Accounting Technician Planner

Rebecca Shiver Planning Assistant

The SWGRC has one location in Camilla, Ga. There is a professional staff of 13 that serves the region in Mapping & GIS Services, Community and Economic Development, Transportation and Transportation Access, Workforce Development, Planning and Zoning Assistance, Historical Preservation Assistance, Loan Assistance, Grant Writing /Administration and General Governmental Services.

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2015 SWGRC COUNCIL COMMITTES

Executive Committee

Danny Palmer, Chair Glenda Battle, Vice Chair Ben Hayward, Treasurer

Member, Brenda Peterson Member, John Spann

Member, Luther Clearman Member, Jack Powell

Nominating Committee Ethics Audit Committee

Danny Palmer Al Hutchins, Chair Appt. Ben Hayward, Chair Al Hutchins Luther Clearman Jimmy Douglas* Donnie Baggett Jack Powell Jack Powell Raymond Breaux Karen Rackley Karen Rackley Danny Palmer Jack Powell Ferrell Ruis

Community Development Transportation Human Services

Robert Ramsey, Chair Raymond Breaux, Chair Karen Rackley, Chair

Dwight Hickman Glenda Battle Virginia Harrison Tommie Postell Elaine Mays Revonn Miller Clinton Johnson John Spann Ray Prince Rick Muggridge Eddie Hopkins Charlie Sol Benjamin Brooks Mike Crosby Lucious Holloway Carlos Williams Ferrell Ruis Al Hutchins Al Bryan Donnie Baggett Brenda Peterson Courtney Brinson Luther Clearman Jim Sellers Paul Naggy Dennis Brinson Darrell Hampton Nathaniel Clark Staff: Christopher Wright Staff: Kevin Coker

Robert McDaniel Suzanne Angell Staff: Barbara Reddick Barbara Reddick Kimberly Brooks

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2015 SWGRC COUNCIL COMMITTEES continued

Environmental & Natural Resources Bylaws Committee

Charlie Williams, Chair Lucius Holloway Betty Murdock Al Bryan Henry Crumley Clinton Johnson Freddie Speight Randy Hill Bennie W. Jones Jim Sellers, Chair Dollie Crumley Personnel Committee Joe Walden Elaine Mays, Chair David Mosely Brenda Peterson Max Beverly John Spann Randy Hill Benjamin Brooks Howard Small* Donnie Baggett Jerry Bush Staff: Steve O’Neil Jeff Hamilton • Denotes Non-Council Members serving as recommended

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CEDS Strategy Committee:

Name of the Participant

Title Winston Oxford

Lee County Chamber of Commerce & Development Authority

Casey Holt

Colquitt County Chamber of Commerce

Page Gilchrist

Mitchell County Economic Development

Lyndia Spooner

Seminole County Chamber of Commerce

Shelley Zorn

Thomasville DDA

Karen Rackley

Worth County Chamber of Commerce

Ricky McCaskill

Decatur County Chamber of Commerce

Chad Mathis

Grady County Chamber of Commerce

Dennis Lee Southern Regional Technical College Dr. Tracey Williams

Albany State University ; Career Center Director

Jason Strickland

Albany- Dougherty Economic Development Commission - President

Jerry Chapman Colquitt County, Mayor Kaylee Holt Colquitt County Chamber of Commerce Kylie Korne Early County Chamber of Commerce Linda Coston Albany Technical College Shelena Hawkins Community and Economic Development Darrell Moore Mayor, City of Colquitt Heather Green Moultrie Chamber of Commerce Barbara Reddick

Senior Planner, Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

Gloria W. Jefferson

Intern, Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

Kimberly Brooks

Planner, Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

Robert McDaniel

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Executive Director

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In addition to the following CEDS participants, other sources of data were utilized from the 2010 Census Data, Local Comprehensive Plans, Albany Herald Metro Guide and the Southwest Georgia Digital Economy Plan. The Cluster information was collected from the Stronger Economies Together (SET) Economic Dev. Plan via Mississippi State University.

State of the Region – Regional SWOT

In preparing for this CEDS Update Report, the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission conducted a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis in order to develop full awareness of the regional factors, both being positive and negative, that are affecting economic development, and to ensure that the goals, objectives, and implementation strategies in the CEDS are still aligned with the needs of the region. The CEDS Strategy Committee and the region’s Economic Development Professionals participated in the SWOT. The responses to the SWOT were prioritized by the participants, community and local plans, and secondary data. The following strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats received the highest ranking:

Strengths

• Regional retail shopping hub • Strong art council and tourist destinations • Availability of numerous institutions of higher education- vocational colleges,

colleges and universities • Great existing industries and diversified • Large regional workforce available • Large agricultural economy • Improvement in high school graduation rates and planning in place to correct

deviations in various communities • Strategic location and transportation infrastructure • Proximity location to the 6th largest MSA in the state of Georgia • Availability of superior healthcare system • Land availability, industrial certified and ready for occupants • Low cost of living expenses • Forming collaborating partnerships with business, education and the private sector • Strong volunteer base • Lowest utility rates in the state

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WEAKNESSES

• Perception and imaging • Aging infrastructure • Public education system • Economy over-leveraged with agri-business receiving tax exemption • Industry recruitment • Access to interstate highway and county location to it • Availability of a skilled workforce • Limited hotels and dry county • High healthcare cost • Development of agri-tourism industry • Communication between county and city governments; leadership • Availability of affordable housing • Racial and socioeconomic issues • Declining population

OPPORTUNITIES

• Increase tourism to offset agri-business tax shortfalls • City and county consolidation • Existing industries continue to expand and add jobs to the labor force • New extensions to attract commercial corridors and reduce drive times between

existing commercial districts • Downtown development • Entrepreneurial development • Unemployment rate reduction • Increasing the high school graduation rate and skill set availability for future

technology • Industry recruitment and expansion • Availability of land and building infrastructure • Collaboration among the public, business and private sector

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THREATS

• Increasing tax exemption for agri-business • Competition for the same jobs • Opposing agendas of city and county • Infrastructure • Community rising cost to keep up the cost of demand for services • Attracting new and expanding manufacturing investment opportunities • Increasing cost of agricultural operations regarding land values, competition

from imported commodities, strict environmental laws • Availability of road signage to increased traffic flow • Education attainment • Lack of a skilled workforce • Complacid or lack of interest • Availability of funds to leverage with private partnership • Poverty level rate reduction • Population declining • Existing industry contraction • High cost of labor • Outsourcing of jobs

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Income and Employment Characteristics

County

Median

Household Income

Median Family Income

Per

Capital Income

Individual % Below

Level

Labor Force

Unemployment

Rate%

Baker

$27,353.00

$46,696.00

$17,019.00

31.8%

45.0%

6.2%

Calhoun

$26,986.00

$50,128.00

$14,868.00

38.7%

47.9%

5.7%

Colquitt

$32,484.00

$38,765.00

$17,025.00

26.7%

59.6%

9.7%

Decatur

$30,619.00

$46,861.00

$18,059.00

27.1%

53.0%

4.5%

Dougherty

$31,671.00

$54,926.00

$18,619.00

31.2%

58.2%

9.8%

Early

$28,853.00

$44,492.00

$17,579.00

31.6%

48.9%

4.2%

Grady

$30,571.00

$49,095.00

$15,734.00

30.1%

57.1%

6.8%

Lee

$60,104.00

$75,666.00

$26,357.00

11.2%

64.6%

5.0%

Miller

$32,260.00

$45,795.00

$19,674.00

23.0%

54.3%

5.3%

Mitchell

$32,054.00

$41,477.00

$15,694.00

26.2%

50.0%

5.7%

Seminole

$30,489.00

$38,173.00

$17,641.00

26.0%

46.6%

4.5%

Terrell

$32,628.00

$38,007.00

$16,836.00

31.6%

54.4%

9.0%

Thomas

$34,035.00

$42,835.00

$19,983.00

26.5%

53.5%

7.1%

Worth

$35,792.00

$44,411.00

$18,551.00

20.2%

56.5%

7.3%

Source: 2000 Census 2009-2013 ACS 5 Year est.; GDOL July 2015

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Income: • Regional Income Figures

o Average median household income……….. $33,278.00 o Average median family income………………… $46,952.00 o Per capital income…………………………………………..$18,117.00 o Lee County has the highest median household income of

$$60,104.00 and Calhoun has the lowest median household income of $26,986.00.

• Regional Poverty Figures o Average poverty rate = 27.3% o Highest poverty rate = Calhoun County @ 38.7% and o Lowest poverty rate = Lee County @ 11.2% o 12 of the 14 regions within Southwest Georgia are considered

to be areas of persistent poverty. • Regional Unemployment Figures(July, 2015)

o Average unemployment rate = 6.5% o Highest unemployment rate = Dougherty County @ 9.8% o Lowest unemployment rate = Early County @ 4.2%

Source 2010 2009-2013 ACS 5 Year est.; GDOL July 2015 Population:

Race and Ethnicity for the Southwest Georgia Region

Race

Number of People 2014 White Alone 189,884 “ African American 152,948 “ American Indian 2,126 “ Asian Alone 3,275 “ Pacific Islander Alone 454

“ Hispanic Origin(Any race) 20,145 “ Other races n/a “ Two or more races 4,265 Population Total 373,097

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Source: ESRI Executive Summary & Graphic Profile for Southwest Georgia Region; United States Census Bureau (updated 6/2015)

0

20000

40000

60000

80000

100000

120000

140000

160000

180000

200000

White AfricanAmerican

AmericanIndian

Asian PacificIslanderAlone

HispanicOrgin(any

race)

Two ormoreRaces

2014 Population by Race or Ethnicity

Series 1

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Population Change 2000-2010

Source: US Census Bureau 2010

County Population 2010 % Change Baker 3255 -5.7%

Calhoun 6654 -3.5% Colquitt 45498 1.3% Decatur 27842 -2.2%

Dougherty 94565 -2.3% Early 11008 -4.7% Grady 25011 1.4% Lee 29191 3.2%

Miller 6125 -2.8% Mitchell 23498 -3.1%

Seminole 8729 -0.5% Terrell 9315 -3.9%

Thomas 44720 0.5% Worth 21679 -3.4%

In the above chart, Lee County has the greatest increase percentage of population change (3.2%) from the years 2000 to 2010 due to several factors which include being a bedroom community for Albany, having an excellent school system, the overall cost of living is low, reasonable taxes, being in proximity to the 6th largest MSA in the state of Georgia, no blighted conditions throughout the county and availability of superior health care. 10 of the 14 counties in the region experienced a loss in population between 2000 and 2010. Baker County experienced the highest decline with 5.7% followed by early County at 4.7%. In addition to the other counties with more than 3% population decline were Calhoun, Mitchell, Terrell and Worth. The population decline in the region is due to the lack of job growth and opportunities to attract new residents along with maintaining the younger age group from age 18 to 24. The younger age groups are migrating to other communities that offer employment as well as other benefits.

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Education:

Education Attainment of Workforce for the Region County

Less than 9th Grade

9-12th grade, no diploma

High school, GED or equivalent

Some College, no degree

Associate’s Degree

Bachelor’s Degree

Greater or Professional

Total

Baker 139 304 968 317 195 150 86 1529 Calhoun 456 965 1576 840 170 349 174 4530 Colquitt 3141 4907 10757 4581 1710 2429 1363 28888 Decatur 1222 2689 5830 4219 1496 1630 1026 18112 Dougherty 3592 8074 16605 16275 3222 6005 4369 58142 Early 640 1002 2656 1243 564 477 434 7036 Grady 1637 2888 6479 2451 1216 1124 750 16545 Lee 776 2197 5496 4767 1504 2203 1579 16545 Miller 325 506 1615 948 239 315 178 4126 Mitchell 1426 2871 6115 2785 842 1000 488 15528 Seminole 323 808 2461 1403 293 467 267 6022 Terrell 694 1384 2030 1089 320 335 192 6044 Thomas 1615 3855 10590 6052 2477 2989 2438 30016 Worth 1088 3042 5498 2587 11067 695 480 14457

Education attainment of the workforce (25 years & older) 2010 Census (2009-2013 ACS 5 Year est. 2013) American Community Survey

Education of the Labor Force • The highest numbers for the education attainment in the region are for high

school graduation, GED or equivalent for all age groups. • The larger percentage of the 45-64 age groups attained a Bachelor’s Degree or

Professional Degree. • A detail look at the education attainment of the labor force reveals that males

represent the vast majority of the population percentage without a high school diploma. This may be possibly due to early recruitment into the workforce or high school dropout. Females represent a larger percentage of the population that obtains some college and beyond.

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Education of Labor Force Southwest Georgia Region Total

Age 18-24 35595

%

Age 25-34 227665

%

Age 35-44 (44238)

%

Age 45-64 91490

%

Age 65+ 48601

%

Less than 9th Grade

10075

29.0

16775

8.0

9th to 12 grade, no Diploma

11494

33.0

34816

16.0

High school ,GED or equivalent

12798

36.0

78087

35.0

36877

83.37

73008

79.8

29890

61.5

Some college, no degree

39332 18.0

Associate degree 15349 7.0 Bachelor’s Degree

1228

4.0

19965

9.0

7361

16.64

12085

13.2

5983

12.3

Graduate or Professional degree

N/A

13712

6.0

2010 Census 2009-13 ACS 5 Year est. July 2015 Workforce Development and Education:

• Workforce Investment Act(WIA) Training and Education Programs & Southern Georgia Workforce Investment Boards

• Technical Colleges o Albany Technical College o Southern Regional Technical College( Moultrie, Thomasville)

• Two and Four- Year Colleges and University o Albany State University o Thomas University o Troy University- Satellite Campus (Albany) o Darton State College o Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College o Bainbridge State College

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Workforce development through education and training is a critical need and component for economic development in Southwest Georgia. Statistic exhibits that a high poverty rate, low diversity region, and education attainment can turn away potential employers and a potential workforce. Education attainment can cripple attempts at industry diversification toward the recruitment of high skill and high wage job growth. If higher paying industries are recruited to the region, higher skill employees are needed and must be trained in a timely manner to provide necessary skills. Education and training are key components and there are significant programs that make a difference in the lives of the uneducated and untrained regional worker. They are as the following:

• Go Back, Move Ahead Initiative • Archway Partnership (Grady County) • Governor’s Re-entry Initiative with the Department of Corrections

There are several regional employment clusters that are growing. These include the following:

1. Agri-business 2. Forest 3. Business and Financial 4. Biomedical 5. Transportation and Logistics

Agri-business - Not only is Georgia a leading producer of commodities like soybeans, peanuts, cotton, pecans, broilers and blueberries, but the state now has a thriving value-added products industry that includes wine, artisan chesses and ice cream, Vidalia relishes, peach products and olive oil among other goods. Agri-business contributes 71.1 billion to Georgia’s economy. More dollars are spent on agri-business than any of the other sectors. The amount being spent outside of the region is significantly more than what is spent in the region. Agri-business is very specialized compared to the nation, so employment in these areas is decreasing due to the degree of specialization. The Southwest Georgia RC Region remains largely an agriculturally based area with prime farmland. This puts the Region in a unique position to benefit from the large number of businesses which support this base. Over 80 companies in the Region are involved in operations such as: chemical and fertilizer manufacturing and distribution, vegetable, nut and animal processing, agriculture machine equipment manufacturing, cotton ginning operations and irrigation systems. Additionally, several tractor and

CLUSTER INFORMATION

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tractor accessories dealers are located in the Region. These businesses provide many job opportunities for local residents. Business and Financial - This area is increasing and the opportunities for employment are vast in both the public and private sectors. Business and financial consultants, planners, budget analyst are included in this group. This area will continue to grow and is very stable within the region.

Forest- Our region has an abundance of forests and the science and art of conservation is practiced in plantations and natural stands. The challenge of forestry is to create systems that are socially accepted while sustaining the resource and any other resources that might be affected. The forest science has elements that belong to the biological, physical, social, political and managerial sciences. Sustainable agriculture and conservation efforts ensure that there is very little damage to land, wildlife and the natural environment. Comprehensive planning efforts make it possible to get the most economic value from the environment and allows for the preservation of this natural balance. Bio-Medical/Biotechnical (Life Sciences) – Although not normally what first comes to mind, many forms of human-derived agriculture clearly fit these broad definitions of using biotechnical system to make products. Indeed our region works to cultivate plants that can be used in other ways that add great value to the product. We have great examples of that in our region with ethanol, wines, and other products. In medicine, modern biotechnology finds applications in areas such as pharmaceutical drug discovery and production. Modern biotechnology can be used to manufacture existing medicines relatively easily and cheaply. This area of science is increasing and makes our region very strong due to its agricultural base.

Transportation and Logistics- Southwest Georgia’s economy depends on its transportation system. State highways, local roads, railroads and airports allow people and things to get moving in Southwest Georgia. These routes are important links between communities in the region, the rest of the state and country, and are essential. Transportation is sometimes difficult between commercial centers and rural areas. There are transportation options available, but they are not well known or utilized. Because there are few options in rural areas besides automobiles, not owning a vehicle can be a hardship. The regional transit program is a significant start in addressing this issue. Improvements to the overall transportation system such as additional highways, rail service and other modes of transportation would increase the mobility of the region and provide improved access to education, jobs and recreation.

According to the Georgia Department of Labor, the industries that dominate Southwest Georgia are Construction, Education and Health Services, Financial Activities, Information, Leisure and Hospitality, Manufacturing and Agriculture, Professional and Business Services, Trade, Transportation and Utilities, and Government.

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Regional Goals, Objectives and Implementation Strategies: Goal: Encourage and increase regional collaboration among cities and counties. Objective: To increase the likelihood of large scaled economic development projects resulting in jobs and private investment. Implementation:

• Support USDA’s Strong Economic Together Program (SET). • Support the Savannah Port project and Cordele Intermodal Port. • Collaboration with Economic Development professionals and encourage

participation from cities throughout the region.

Goal: Expand existing industries. Objective: To increase the potential that existing industries will expand into the region. Implementation:

• Promote BREP (Business Retention Expansion Professional) and reporting among counties and assist with the process or advertise outreach when needed or feasible.

Goal: Improve the infrastructure of water, sewer, roads, housing and technology. Objective: To increase the likelihood that businesses will be locating to the region. Implementation:

• Prepare and submit public works and infrastructure grants to the EDA (Economic Development Administration) and the Department of Community Affairs on behalf of the communities in the region.

• Support and provide technical assistance to increase the supply of safe, affordable housing

Goal: Support technical colleges within the region. Objective: To increase the level of education short & long term of the region’s workforce. Implementation:

• Promote “Go Build” the Governor Workforce Plan. • Partner with technical colleges to promote the GED test.

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• Partner with nonprofits and other community organization on literacy project when feasible.

Goal: Increase tourism in the region. Objective: Increase the regions tax base and local governments’ ability to provide services and recreational opportunities. Implementation:

• Work with the Department of Economic Development and other organizations to develop a regional tourism effort.

• Develop a welcome center plan. • Provide technical assistance for preparing grants to support tourism. • Continue to support efforts to promote tourism along U.S. Highway 27. • Support efforts to promote tourism along the Dixie Highway(State HWY 3)

Goal: Recruit retirees to the region. Objective: Support communities in the region and increase tax base by recruiting retirees. Implementation:

• Communicate with the real estate agents, chambers in the region to track the influx of retirees, contact existing retirees and respond to prospective retirees

• Provide technical assistance to assist in the development of retirement communities and long-term living communities.

• Continue to support marketing efforts of communities to identify themselves as desirable retirement locations.

Goal: Increase access to capital for small businesses in the region. Objective: To increase availability and access to low interest financing for businesses creating jobs and making private investments. Implementation:

• Support and assist businesses creation and with low-interest loan application.

• Acquire funding to increase RLF lending when applicable. • Educate local governments, small businesses and banks about RLF’s. • Promote all RLF’s. • Utilize Community Economic Centers if available within the region.

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Goal: Create a diverse economy resistant to economic recession. Objective: To promote the development of diverse employment opportunities at various skill levels. Implementation:

• Support economic development partners and forums and encourage participation from community leaders.

• Provide technical assistance to businesses in the region. • Support and promote tourism/agri-tourism • Provide technical support of a regional food systems or regional food hubs • Support green energy conservation (sustainable/renewable). • Help communities obtain access to tax incentives. • Create jobs and increase private investment.

Goal: Improve and upgrade the educational attainment levels of the labor workforce skills within the region. Objective: Develop and support community based efforts to address improved education levels and labor force skills. Support the continued improvement of the education system in addressing education issues and education skill improvement for the region. Implementation:

• Assist in establishing leadership development programs for all counties and include training and education level/labor force skills improvement.

• Support continued expansion of facilities and programs of state’s technical colleges in the region.

• Encourage local and regional industries/businesses to offer opportunities for on the job training for potential employees.

Goal: Provide a well trained workforce, professional, technical and skilled, capable of accommodating new industry and maintaining existing industry. Objective: Improved education attainment by reducing high school drop-out rate. Implementation:

• Continue to support funding and expansion of all forms of education. • Dissemination of Census data as it becomes available. • SWGRC will continue to provide support for the Workforce Investment

Board objectives including the following: continuing the development of youth education employment programs, occupational skills enhancement programs for adults and dislocated workers and comprehensive multi-aging one stop workforce network and systems.

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Regional Economic Development Progress Baker County does not report much in terms of economic development projects. However, the largest employer in the county is the Jones Ecological Research Center and employs about 100. Secondly, the Albany Primary Health Care office is the next largest employer in the community and employs about 12 employees. There are a number of large, private owned plantations that are among the largest employers in the county also. Calhoun County is much like Baker County in terms of economic development. One of the largest employers in Calhoun County is the Calhoun State Prison that was built in 1994 and employs about 275 employees. Additional employers includes West Foods (Edison), agricultural businesses, Bank of Edison, Patula Charter School and the Calhoun County School System. Colquitt County is one of the largest communities in the region and has a diverse roster of businesses to include Maule Aircraft, Moultrie Die Cast, Colquitt County Hospital, Colquitt County School System, Blue Sky Grill and millions of dollars have been invested in downtown Moultrie. The top industry in Moultrie, GA is the offices of physician industry with 1.2% of all workers in Moultrie are employed in this sector. Other leading employment sectors for Colquitt County include religious organizations, supermarkets; commercial banking and there are approximately 5000 businesses establishments in Moultrie that employs from 10 to more than 250 employees. Also, Colquitt County leads the state in vegetable production amounting to $155 million dollars. Decatur County has experienced an economic recession over the past years due to their connections with the loss of several manufactures and has been unable to recruit replacements. There have been several manufactures to close in the area eliminating jobs, Shaw Industries (loss of 186 jobs), PROPEX (loss of 250 jobs), and TRACO (loss of 180 jobs). However, there have been small scaled factories to commence business in Bainbridge employing 12 to 25 jobs and Bainbridge Manufacturing will be adding 200 jobs. They have recruited retail businesses to downtown Bainbridge creating approximately 60 jobs. Dougherty County and the city of Albany MSA make up the largest community in the Southwest Georgia region. Although, it is ranked among the poorest MSA in the United States, it is doing well in terms of economic development projects. Dougherty County

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will use up to $5 million dollars to spur renovation of Albany’s downtown district, particularly around the Flint River. The city leaders have been successful in structuring a deal to bring in a 2nd hotel- Home 2 Suites into the downtown district, development of Albany Heights building, creation of a college center in the former Utility Board building that will serve students attending Albany State University, Darton State College, Albany Technical College and the Dougherty County School System. Thrush Aircraft has added 100 more jobs to the payroll, recruitment of WebRestaurant to the area with 150 jobs, an additional manufacturing line installed at Mars Chocolate, and Constellation Energy, a biomass plant at P & G has created 75 new jobs, Starbucks Corporate Store added 12 full and part time jobs, and other local companies are considering expansion in the near future. The Dougherty County School System, Albany State University, and Albany Technical College have developed an Albany Dougherty Educational Collaborative that will work to improve the school system and enhance the skill level of the graduating students to compliment the local industries employment needs as well as improve the high school graduation rates. Early County has experienced tough times in the past few years and teaming up with economic development professionals to market the area. They have been able to recruit Taco Bell and Verizon to the area and have obtained a $40,000.00 grant for workforce development. The Early County Hospital remains to be one of the largest employers in the county, and other employers would include Vescom Corporation, Harvey’s Supermarket, Damascus Peanut Company and Birdsong Peanuts. Grady County has embarked upon developing 960 acres into a fishing and recreational Lake north of Highway 84 and totaling in the range of millions of dollars aiding in economic investments. Grady County is scheduled to open a poultry facility this year and a golf distribution center creating about 22 to 38 jobs. They are working on a plan to recruit companies from their neighboring Florida counties and to bring back past business to the community. The City of Cairo was awarded funds to start development & construction of the downtown district in March, 2015. The Cairo-Grady County Chamber of Commerce continues to help economic development by assisting with numerous community annual events such as the Whigham rattlesnake round-up, Calvary mule day, Cairo Christmas parade and the southern antique car rally. Their proximity and bordering Tallahassee is a great resource needed to foster and take advantage of the opportunity. Lee County is known as one of the fastest-growing counties in the region as well as the state over the past couple of decades. Over 70% of the workforce from Lee County is employed in Dougherty County. Lee County was fourth in the state for pecan production from acreage of 10,500 yielding $18 million dollars. It has experienced a

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3.2% population growth since 2010, a 76.2 home ownership rate and the lowest rate of persons living below the poverty level in the region (11.2%). Because Lee County is an up scaled bedroom community to Albany, Dougherty County, their economic development efforts are focused on retail in an attempt to increase the tax base in the county that receives little to no incentives from the state. All indications from consultants and Lee County Development Authority within the past year, Lee County would be better served to invest what monies that it can afford by creating the necessary ingredient. The investments would include infrastructure that would entice commercial and retail investments, rather than investing in additional industrial properties at this time. Miller County is a sparse populated county that does not see many economic development projects. However, over the past year, Miller County has experienced some expansions (Stewards Auto Parts, Emerald RV Park, New Life Day Care Center, and Birdsong Peanuts). Since February 2015, the Chamber of Commerce has added 3 new members. Also, the Chamber hosts the Mayhaw Festival and the 4th of July annually to improve the quality of life for the residents. In addition, they have submitted application to commence renovation in the downtown district and improve signage on US Highway 27. Mitchell County has the largest percentage of adults without a high school diploma in the region which may be part of the reason for its lack of economic development projects. The Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce has added three new members over the past year, Taco Bell, Hibbett Sports, and Marvin’s Hardware totaling approximately 35 new jobs. Seminole County has not experienced much economic growth over the past year but added 6 jobs with the opening of Specialty Sales Seminole (planter’s production) to the area. Terrell County has not seen much economic growth during the past years and the Chamber of Commerce collaborated with the Terrell County Historic Preservation Society and the Better Hometown Dawson Task Force to increase tourism and cultural awareness, improve the streets, buildings and preserve places of historical importance. Renovations have been completed on the courthouse, the Carnegie Library Building, the Garden Club House, the Old McDowell Building, which is the new headquarters for the Terrell County Chamber of Commerce. The old jail has been demolished and the Sherriff’s Department relocated in a new building next to the Terrell County Correctional Institute. The main industry in Terrell County is farming and peanut production.

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Thomas County has not fully recovered from the economic recession and acquired a ROI (Return on Investment) Company to aid in visiting the available sites and serving as a consultant. Hurst Boiling & Welding Inc. expanded the facility adding 50 jobs along with relocating a supplier from Finland to the area for manufacturing parts creating another 18 jobs with a goal to add 50 or more jobs within the next year. Thomas County Chamber of Commerce has created a website to market the area to perspective businesses. Worth County has been able to retain Peter Pan Peanut Manufacture for over 30 years with 125 to 200 employees and a possibility of adding 50 additional jobs within the next year. National Pecan has acquires Poulan Pecan and the Workforce 44 program is ongoing to prepare the workforce for industry jobs in progress. The location of Walmart Super Center to the area added 160 jobs initially to the workforce but will be scaling down to 100 jobs.

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Conclusion: The rural communities of Southwest Georgia face challenges like no other communities. The problem with extreme poverty impacts every county in the region. It is an all too common problem due to the lack of collaboration or connectivity and some communities in the region are pushing forward to eradicate the ills of poverty and overcome the obstacles. There are nonprofit organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, the Certified Literate Community Program, Family Connection, the Rotary Club, The Lion’s Club, Church boards, choirs, PTA and other community based organizations aiding in this process. This voluntary task is in addition to a job that they work to support their families as well as themselves. Planning for the future is more important now than ever in the region and especially for the rural communities since there is a lack of much needed funds. Comprehensive Planning processes such as CEDS and others allow communities to take a candid look at their assets and examine the possibilities as well as opportunities that will work for their community. The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission is rich in natural and cultural resources and we are working diligently to identify ways to capitalize and preserve them. We are doing a better job in sustaining our resources and the economic benefits to the region are viable with the installation of the solar energy farms. In agriculture, farmers and other entrepreneurs are learning how to sustain their products and crops as well as add value to them in ways that they thought were impossible. Region 10 will continue to move forward at a slow steady pace taking incremental steps which is ideal since transportation and other infrastructure improvement will need to be advanced. Communities are working in collaboration across county lines with projects such as Regional Partner Network and Stronger Communities Together (SET). These tools and others will allow communities in the region to grow stronger economically and socially. This will increase our asset base and other components will follow to advance the region to new horizon. Robert B. McDaniel Executive Director Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

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Reference Page: Education Attainment of Workforce 25 years & Older, 2010 Census (2009-2013 ACS 5 Years, est.), American Community Survey, 2013. Essential Information for Natives and Newcomers, Albany Metro Guide, Albany Herald, October, 2015, p. 4-12. Farmgate Agriculture Report of Southwest Georgia, www.caes.uga.edu/center/caed, November, 2015. Income and Employment Characteristics, 2000 Census (2009-2013, ACS 5years), GDL, July, 2015. Millsaps, John. Regents Approve Principles for Consolidation of Institutions, News- room, University of Georgia, November, 2011. Population Change (2000-2010), U.S. Census, 2014 Race and Ethnicity: Population by Race, U.S. Census Bureau (6/2015) and ESRI Sum- Mary & Graphic Profile for Southwest Georgia Region. Southwest Georgia Digital Economy Plan, September, 2015. Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Internship Handbook for 2015-2016. Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Staff Member Handbook, 2014. Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Annual Report, 2014, p. 26-29. U. S. Department of Commerce: Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS) Summary of Requirements, www.eda.gov., June, 2015, p. 1-26.

http://www.caes.uga.edu/center/caed

http://www.eda.gov/

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