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Copyright ©2003 PCDA
January 3, 2000 - Everyone is thankful that Y2K came pretty much without a hitch. Beginning today, everyone gets back to a fairly normal work schedule. I could tell by the traffic on I-64 this morning. The recently purchased new computer systems for the Development Authority assured compliance with the passing of the old millenium and the entrance of 2000.
Now the biggest question is: What do we do next? A number of engineering firms continue to work on the Master Plan for Development of the new Huntington-Charleston Business Center business park in Fraziers Bottom. The Wetlands Mitigation Plan is nearing completion and the Master Plan is well underway. Recently, Dunn Engineers, Inc. provided a draft of conceptual layout plan for the new business park. At the December meeting of PCDA's Board of Directors, representatives from the engineering firm provided a discussion about what tasks have been accomplished so far and work yet to be done to finish the plan.
The relative quiet between Christmas and New Years came as a bit of relief. With the beginning of a new year, the Development Authority will now begin to work in earnest towards the development of the new business park. A couple of businesses have already indicated an interest in potential locations at the new park. To encourage development and sale of property at the park, it is important to begin marketing the property. The Authority is currently working with a local marketing firm to develop a brochure (marketing piece) that can be used for industrial inquiries, direct mailings, etc. The brochure will highlight the property and its potential for use for industrial/business expansion.
The beginning of the new year will also see the Development Authority's first major fund-raising effort in many years. Many businesses were sent letters asking for financial support for the Authority through PROTEC (the Putnam Regional Organization for Technical and Economic Development), its fundraising arm. To effectivelly market Putnam County to new and expanding businesses, adequate marketing funding is required. The need to replace jobs and to enhance the job opportunities for county residents is never-ending.
Recent investments by the Putnam County Commission, with the approval to purchase a new computer projector will allow the Authority to use the equipment with a laptop computer to make effective, high quality presentations for new and expanding businesses.
The staff looks forward to the challenges ahead for 2000 and beyond as Putnam County continues its growth and progress.