Economic Development is a crucial component of Mike's vision for Henry County. Property tax in Henry County is among the highest in metro Atlanta, with residents paying more than two-thirds of the tax bills.  Henry has attracted warehousing and retail, but it is time to diversify our commercial base.  Approximately 70% of Henry County's workforce works outside of Henry County.  This produces lost opportunities for our citizens. Over the years our residential growth has out paced our business growth.  Henry County needs to think regionally as we are a major component of the south side of Atlanta.  Hand in Hand with the other south side counties, Mike can make a difference.

Over the next few months Mike will offer an aggressive plan that will address our business needs.  Mike believes that the Chairman needs to take a very active role in marketing Henry County in order to entice business to begin or relocate their business to our community.  Henry County needs to incrementally reduce the percentage of our workforce traveling outside of Henry County over the next several years by working with private business to create quality salaried jobs. We must continue to increase the median income level in Henry County. Our greatest liability is the number of citizens that travel outside of our great county for a good job.  It is time that we take control of our own resources and work to reduce this liability.

Three elements to Mike's economic plan:

• Recruit large branch plant - need more white collar employment opportunities and manufacturing
• Sustaining existing business
• Recruit new development focused on entrepreneurship