In October 2004, Former Augusta Mayor Bob Young and the Augusta Richmond County Commission authorized the establishment of an important new initiative designed to support and assist businesses – Economic Development Ombudsman (EDO) Initiative.
The Augusta Housing and Economic Development Department (AHEDD) headed up by former Director, Warren Smith, has been the lead agency. Janie Peel and Helen Blocker-Adams were selected to fill the role of EDO, which include helping existing firms expand and maintain operations in Augusta, GA, as well encourage new business development. Helen Blocker-Adams resigned in May 2005 because of potential conflict of interest after entering the mayoral race. Ms. Peel continues to serve as an EDO.
The goal of the Economic Development Summit, held February 2005, was to provide the city leaders and the public at-large with a clear and comprehensive economic development plan that meets the needs of the entire City; identify priority projects and the lead entities that will be implementing these plans.
The economic development priorities focuses on four areas:
- Business/Industry
- Biomedical/Life Sciences/Healthcare
- Non-Industrial -Retail, Commercial Office Space, Residential & Services
- Tourism/Sports/History.
The following download provides a detailed look at the four priority projects. Click here for the zip file.
Download the 2006 Economic Development Quick Reference Guide, here.
Download the Downtown Augusta 2006 Annual Report here
GeorgiaSpeaks endeavor is dedicated to allowing the citizens to have greater input in the legislature. Working together, we can build a better Georgia.
In the News:
South Augusta Pleads for Share of Economic Development
More than Golf...
Our State: Augusta/Richmond County
Copenhaver makes call for action in State of the City address,
Jan 17, 2007 Reporter: Jonathan Martin WRDW
Read Helen's article South Augusta is Ready for Renaissance from the Chronicle.
