Economic development is wealth creation through attracting, creating, retaining and expanding business and industry. Our Vision to Action is very important and works to improve education, infrastructure, leadership and community development.

Companies are looking for clean, tidy and safe communities. Companies are looking for an educated workforce. As you see see our Vision to Action committees are very important and more volunteers are needed to make Webster County a county that is more inviting to businesses, industries and residents.

These are among activities of the Webster County Development Council during April:

- I have been in contact with another wireless Internet provider for the county. This is a service that is very much needed.

- A meeting was held with Mississippi State University that could mean a strong potential industry for our county. Plans are progressing toward this goal.

- I am continuing to work with our motel prospect. Everything is positive and going well at the present time.

- I requested Webster County to become a pilot county for USDA Rural Development in the GTPDD district. As a result of that request Nick Walters came to Webster County in April to make it official.

- Because of my request of TVA for retail help, Webster County was nominated as one of 25 counties in the entire TVA service consisting of parts of 13 states to become a pilot county. Work is continuing in getting this entire project set up.

Why should we recruit retail? It satisfies our citizens' desire to shop at home. It increases revenue from sales taxes (ask our mayors and aldermen how much of the cities' budget comes from sales tax) and property taxes.

Retail brings new dollars into our community. Sales taxes provide better city services, better streets, lower property taxes, higher-paid employees, better infrastructure and better quality of life.

I have requested information from building and property owners that want to have the WCDC assist them in finding tenants for their property. The WCDC will provide demographics through special software available through TVA.

- I am working with two prospects for the Futorian building (editor's note: the building has been sold to Britton Industries).

Our recruitment video was delayed but was finished in May.

- I have sent the Mississippi Development Authority updated information on our available buildings and sites.

- Our business incubator feasibility study will be finished in May.

- Leadership82 had its graduation. Those graduates are getting involved to improve the county.

The WCDC is here to assist existing small businesses and startups. If you or a business owner that you know needs help, please call or come by and I will assist in every way that I can. This is a free service.

Anderson is executive director of the Webster County Development Council. He may be contacted at 258-7835 or webwcdc@bellsouth.net, or visit www.webstercountyms.com.