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Long Development Authority discusses labor-force requirements
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The Long County Development Authority discussed setting labor-force requirements for future businesses that will be located in the Industrial Park in the county.
At the May 27 meeting, development authority member Marvin DeLoach brought up the issue of establishing guidelines for prospective businesses in the park. According to DeLoach, the authority needs to look at how any prospective business would help to increase the number of employees in the county.
DeLoach said the land at the industrial site was a limited commodity, and as a result, the authority needs to carefully question which businesses they allow into the park.
DeLoach offered several suggestions, such as offering lower land costs for prospects, especially if a particular business looking to locate itself in the industrial park would mean an influx of new jobs for the county. DeLoach also warned the authority should be cautious before giving any land to prospective businesses.
Member Lila Bell agreed with DeLoach, suggesting a minimum-employee requirement and mandatory business classifications of manufacturing, industrial or distribution.
Member Brian Wingate was unsure if a minimum employee requirement was feasible due to fluctuating economic conditions and other variables. Wingate wants the authority to look at larger, more established industrial park prospects, which pose less risk of failure than smaller, new businesses.
The authority eventually tabled any immediate action, but will continue to seek examples of other county requirements for industrial sites in an attempt to gather more information on prospect stipulations.
Authority members were informed that Paul McGowan has already established his roofing project at the industrial site, and currently is erecting a fence to mark the business’s parameters.
According to information provided by the authority, the company will manufacture metal roof panels and components, and will serve as a roofing supply company.
After the meeting, DeLoach announced his resignation from the authority.
“I just think its time to give some other people the opportunity to come in with some new ideas. I’ve been on here for five years, and I just think its time for me to step down.
“It’s been a good experience to be on the board,” DeLoach said, “I appreciate the opportunity to have worked for the county.”
Chairman Terry Gordon lauded DeLoach’s years of service.
“Marvin has done a super job,” Gordon said. “We appreciate all of his hard work he has done for us, and we sure will miss him.”
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