The Board of Directors of the Magnolia Economic Development Corp. heard an upbeat report from president Mike Boyd Thursday during the board’s annual breakfast meeting.
Boyd gave a PowerPoint presentation detailing progress made in job recruitment and retention. The biggest news, he said, was that 80 new jobs had been added to Columbia County payrolls in 2014.
One of the most important projects that MEDC helped work on last year was putting together a proposal to put before the state Department of Corrections in the event the Legislature approves funding for a new prison unit, to be located somewhere in the state.
“That is something that might not ever see the light of day,” Boyd said of the potential prison project, “but it was our responsibility to respond that opportunity.”
He said Columbia County would benefit from the construction of a prison even if it were in a neighboring county.
Cammie Hambrice, executive director of MEDC, said the prison application process was “a good exercise” in working with other counties and “taking a closer look at our community” as the group put together its proposal.
Boyd said it was significant that two construction projects are under way in the Harvey Couch Business Park — Elliott Electric and the new Workforce Services/Adult Ed building. He thanked several local and state officials, partcularly State Sen. Bruce Maloch, for their help bringing the Adult Ed project to fruition.
“This is an example of thow we can accomplish significant things,” Boyd said. “We’re trying to improve the lives of our citizens. (Adult Ed) is not just about getting a GED or wage certificate. We’ve tried to answer the bell for industry and our citizens.”
“There’s a lot left to be done,” Boyd said of 2015. “We put together a strategic plan in 2014 and we have to continue to work the plan. Yes, we need more money, but not every project requires only money. MEDC can also be a facilitator. We have to do whatever it takes.”
He said Hixson Lumber Co. significantly added 50 jobs last year in an expansion. Hambrice said the company “is about to become the largest fence producer in the United States.” Boyd said Hixson’s success “could pay more dividends down the road.”
Boyd also said MEDC should complete the Prospect Readiness Education Program training this year. PREP is offered through the Arkansas Economic Development Commission and helps communities prepare for visiting industrial prospects.
“That’s a good milestone,” he said. “AEDC will know that we can properly handle and receive (prospects).”