Test Drive 2014 Welcome Home Magazine | Page 73

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT in addition to the second most visited State Park in Georgia, Monroe County is blessed with targeted attractions. Other destinations of interest in Monroe County include our growing outdoor attractions which include Lake Juliette, Rum Creek, Twin Oak Farms, Deer Creek Farms, Rocking Horse Ranch and the Meadows Gun Club. The other faucet of economic development that is important to Monroe County is retail and commercial development. This sector also creates jobs, enhances neighborhood safety and contributes to vibrant environment of our community’s activity and growth. By creating opportunities for retailers and service providers, residents can shop for the goods and services they need in their own neighborhood. Successful local businesses help forestall blight and crime, and they reinforce investments in housing and other development efforts. They transform decaying commercial corridors into centers for arts and entertainment, and incubate innovation that ranges from micro-enterprises to retooled industrial sites. The Authority continues to evaluate and work on developing all sectors of economic development in Monroe County from existing and new industries to non-traditional tourism, retail and commercial development. Whether a life-long resident of Monroe County or someone interested in calling Monroe County home, the Development Authority stands ready to meet your development needs. Development Authority Board of Directors Butch Copelan Chairman Barry Peters Charles Wilder, Sr. Vice Chairman Phil Ham Treasurer/Secretary Asst. Treasurer/Asst. Secretary Charles Haygood George Wilson Tommy Campbell Larry Evans Board Attorney Board Member Welcome Home: The Forsyth-Monroe County Relocation Guide and Membership Directory Board Member Board Member 73