David Williams is now the acting chairman of the Development Authority of Polk County following the resignation of Reed Freeman. Williams was the vice-chairman. (Agnes Hagin/thepolkfishwrap.com)
He stepped into the position following the resignation of Chair Reed Freeman.
In his letter to Williams, Freeman noted, “it has been my honor and privilege to serve the citizens of Cedartown and Polk County.” No other explanation was given on his decision.
However, Williams waded into business when he was seated as acting chair during a special called meeting.
The group heard comments from President Eric McDonald regarding his previous request for Special Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds for economic development. He has presented his request to the Polk County Board of Commissioners.
McDonald said he had considered reducing his request from $1.7 million to $1.2. The money would be drawn from Polk’s 2008 and proposed 2014 SPLOST to pay for a 2012-2014 capital outlay priority list.
A lively discussion followed with Roger Waldrop, board member, pointing out that the group is on the front line of job creation for Polk citizens.
“It is not our money,” he said. “Economic development dollars are to be used to bring jobs to Polk. It seems that we have not received because we did not ask. Now is the time to ask.”
Others agreed with his point of view and noted that Polk is competing with places like Rome and Chattanooga, which was determined to be “on fire” to attract industry.
Commissioner Jason Ward was asked to respond to the proposal.
“We (the county board) will work with Eric,” he said. “However, we need to know what you need, a definite plan.”
Ward also reminded that Polk Commissioners have other considerations, including roads and public safety.
Williams said no vote was needed to confirm a requested lower total. “I am hearing that you (DAPC board) want to keep the original request.”
His comment was confirmed by a general consensus to keep the initial request in place.
Post a Comment