On Tuesday, July 25th, Michele Johnson, Greater Vidalia® Chamber President and Toombs County Development Authority Executive Director, was the program speaker at the Vidalia Kiwanis Club’s weekly meeting. Michele gave the group an “economic snapshot” of where we currently are, and an insight into what site consultants look at when deciding on relocation projects for industry projects. Currently, we have three existing industries contemplating on expansion projects, numerous requests from new projects with the majority of those stemming from the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant of America announcement in Bryan County, and construction of the Greater Vidalia® Center for Rural Entrepreneurism. Mentioned during the program was that one of our biggest assets we have to attract new business is that we have a publicly owned building ready for a business to take over. Having a property ready for a business to move into sets us a part from our neighbors and gives us a “leg up” in the recruitment process.
Michele also teased the upcoming event that will be hosted by the Greater Vidalia® Chamber, State of Industry, an in depth look at economic development that will be held on Thursday, October 5, 2023 . A question and answer portion followed the update and Michele was joined by a panel of Toombs County Development Authority members; Authority Chair, Tim Truxel, and board members, Andy Kimbell, Garrett Wilcox, and Pat Dixon.
