Unlike big cities, small communities thrive on relationships, which are at the core of economic development. We know our neighbors. We share traditions and stories. The closeness in our community makes for something exceptionally special in the world today. As the calendar turns and a new year begins, many of us will pause to reflect on personal goals; however this time of renewal is just as powerful—if not more so—when embraced by the entire community. Our lives often requir

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It’s been three whole years since I carried boxes full of items from my old office in Bainbridge through the front doors of the Alexander Building. It was the Thursday before Christmas and I figured there wouldn’t be many people around. Thinking I could just sneak in and out before anyone noticed me, I wasn’t prepared for my first meeting with the community. The Rotary Club was finishing their meeting while I was sending boxes up the elevator. My jeans had holes in them. Not

Communities don’t thrive by chance. They thrive because someone, somewhere, started with a clear ‘why’—a purpose that resonates and inspires, which ultimately guides every decision that follows. Whether it’s launching a downtown revitalization initiative or spearheading a massive development project, starting with ‘why’ is the difference between simply “going through the motions” and providing a lasting impact. Every community has needs. Many are obvious: Jobs. Attainable Hou

Earlier this year the City of Blakely was selected as a participant for UGA Archway Partnership’s Connecting Resilient Communities (CRC) program, which is designed for UGA students to carry out three projects with Blakely that will assist us in our economic development efforts. In April a team from Blakely that included myself, Councilman Matt Lee, Stephanie Benton with the Extension Office, Harriss Brown with Blakely Feed & Seed and David Wolfe, the former Young Farmers of E

When I think of harvest season, I typically think of celebrations that come along with reaping rewards that come after months (and sometimes years) of “blood, sweat and tears.” Sounds a lot like economic development, doesn’t it? Just like a successful crop, successful communities begin with the planting of small seeds— appropriate planning, strong partnerships and shared visions. These seeds grow only when nurtured with commitment and, of course, patience. Along the way, chal

Q&A with John Engler, McKnight-Blakely, LLC and Susanne Reynolds, Blakely-Early Co. Economic Development 1. How will a data center affect the water supply? Susanne: QTS uses a closed-loop water system for cooling purposes and that means there are no cooling towers. The cooling system does not consume water once it becomes operational. This efficient design will not put a strain on local water wells. The water also never leaves the system, so it doesn’t get discharged into an

The eternal flame at the War Veterans Monument that sits on the Early County Courthouse lawn was diminished during Hurricane Michael in 2018. For well over a year after the dim lantern was pointed out to me – it was all I could see every time I looked out of my office window. I remember thinking, “That’s just bad energy and nothing good can come from an unlit eternal flame” – especially one in the heart of the community. Towards the beginning of 2024, I made an internal goal

This past month marked three years since I answered “the call” to accept the position of Early County’s economic developer. I can honestly say, it has not been boring. There are no two days that are ever the same. Each morning for over a year, I would ask myself what was at least one thing I would do during my day that would make a positive impact in Early County. Daily, I would find multiple things to accomplish to assist in providing appropriate avenues to attract and retai

Published in the Early County News on October 7, 2025. This past week applications for the Georgia FLEX Program were released to high school students in Early County. The Development Authority of Early County, along with community partners, are leading the way and providing an avenue for Early County’s young entrepreneurs. The Georgia FLEX (Foundational Leadership and Entrepreneurship Experience) program gives high school students the opportunity to engage with the business

I’ve always loved to read. Both of my parents contributed to that love of reading. Mama has read every “Little Golden Book” written to...

Last week, I represented Early County and Blakely at the Georgia Economic Developers Association (GEDA) Conference in Downtown Savannah....

A few Fridays ago I stood in a conference room surrounded by my fellow local economic developers from South Georgia. Even though it is...

Downtowns are thriving across Georgia thanks to the efforts of local Main Street programs. Georgia’s accredited Main Street cities...

The last article on downtown growth (or lack thereof) seemed to be a “hot topic,” so let’s continue down that road… What are catalysts...

Pictured left to right: Sam Hattaway, Chairman Mike Newberry, Dee Grist, Secretary-Treasurer Steve Singletary; 2025 EC Growth Scholar,...

The outlined strategic economic development actions were approved by the Development Authority of Early County Board of Directors on...