The first of the Economic Development Breakfast Series was held on Tuesday, July 12, 2016, at Rockdale Medical Center. Marty Jones, Executive Director of the Conyers-Rockdale Economic Development Council (CREDC), provided an overview of economic development of the county. Gina Hartsell, Project Manager for CREDC, provided an overview of television and film activities in the county. And Lauren Lambiase, Regional Director of Georgia Power, presented a region and state overview of economic development.

During the program, it was clear that the CREDC was on track to retain, expand and attract businesses for continuous growth. Many accomplishments were highlighted.

Ashley Capital finished a 175,000 square foot, Class A industrial space. The single-story facility will appeal to a wide variety of corporate users.

Batchelor and Kimball are investing $6 million into a new facility in the community. Currently with 200 employees and annual revenues reported at more than $150,000,000, Batchelor and Kimball is relocating their corporate headquarters along with opening a new manufacturing plant in Conyers.

C&K Plastics is also relocating a new facility here; they have purchased a 95,000 square foot building and estimate bringing 50 to 60 new jobs.

May 2016 saw unemployment down to 5% with more than 1,073 more workers in Rockdale County compared to one year ago. The future outlook for employment looks very positive.

ABC Compounding Co., Inc. estimates growth with 100 new jobs. Dart Container Corporation estimates 30 more high tech jobs in the volume transportation sector. And Acuity Brands Lighting estimates 800 new jobs in the next 4 years.

You can find out more about Rockdale’s economic development by visiting http://www.credcga.org/.

Film production continues to be big industry in our community. Known as the biggest little filming community in Georgia, Conyers has 14 films in production through October 2016. To keep current with filming or to earn more, visit www.filmrockdale.com.

Economic development is important for the continuous creation of wealth and sustainability. The region and state is targeting key industries in gaming and filming, logistics, defense, internet technology, biosciences and food processing. These industries are attracted by our low cost of living, our 60+ technical and university systems, low electricity rates, and great transportation.