The Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) presented a comprehensive strategic plan to its stakeholders in a board meeting this afternoon, culminating a six-month planning effort in partnership with VisionFirst Advisors.  The plan, a tooth-to-tail evaluation of MBCIA's economic development program, was presented by Gray Swoope, VisionFirst president, and chief executive officer.  Swoope, a recognized national leader in economic development and site selection, praised MBCIA for taking steps to strengthen its competitive edge in the economic development arena. 

"Macon-Bibb County has a lot of great resources to offer and a wonderful story to tell," said Swoope. "It was our pleasure collaborating with them to ensure they are putting their best foot forward in future site selection opportunities."

With the plan's presentation to the board members, MBCIA staff and stakeholders now have a roadmap to accomplish strategic goals and objectives in recruiting and retaining large industries in the county.  And according to Mayor Lester Miller, the timing couldn't be better. 

“As a community, we deserve a plan for economic development that includes all stakeholders moving in the same direction,” says Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller. “We need to work together to increase the number of well-paid jobs, and I applaud the Industrial Authority for taking this step to create a roadmap toward that goal.” 

MBCIA chairman Robby Fountain echoed the mayor's sentiment. 

"On behalf of the MBCIA's Board of Directors, we are grateful to VisionFirst Advisors and our participating community members for assisting us in evaluating and retooling our economic development processes," said Fountain. "We look to be the most competitive for future opportunities and to enhance our overall economic development successes for the citizens of Macon-Bibb County."

The full strategic plan can be viewed here.

VisionFirst Advisors established itself as a trusted partner in the economic development consulting field with various clients across 30 states and five Fortune 500 companies. They bring a skilled group of professionals to the table that has worked in every economic development area.