Martinsville and Henry County Unite to Boost Economic Development
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Traditionally‚ cities and counties operate independent economic development efforts. But there is strength in unity‚ according to Mark Heath‚ president and CEO of the Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corp.
“We want the city and the county to be full partners‚” says Heath‚ who joined the nonprofit organization in February 2006. “Our long-term goal is an economic development program where all the costs and all the revenues are shared equally between the city and county on every deal we make.”
Heath says any industry is welcome in the area. However‚ the EDC is particularly targeting plastics‚ a growth industry‚ and food processing‚ which can take advantage of the water and sewer capacities now underutilized since the departure of textiles companies.
The furniture industry‚ an area staple‚ is still a focus.
“We’re looking for specialty furniture and niche market opportunities‚” Heath says. Tourism‚ fueled by motor sports and recreation‚ also continues to drive economic growth.
Retirees are another target. “We have a quality of life and low cost of living that is attractive‚” Heath explains.
Many recent retirees from the Northeast appreciate the area’s more moderate climate‚ he says. And the area is blessed with excellent health care facilities‚ a requirement for most retirees.
The organization‚ which spearheads training workshops‚ also seeks to bolster minority and small businesses.
“We think it has a lot of growth potential‚” Heath concludes. “We’re working hard to build homegrown job opportunities.”
For information‚ visit yesmartinsville.com.
Story by Pam George
Photo by Brian McCord
