PDA Says Prospects Are Looking Good

 Kim Purrier
The Americus Times-Recorder

The Americus-Sumter Payroll Development Authority (PDA) met Monday and discussed potential new business that could be coming to Americus.

David Garriga, executive director, brought up three different companies that have Americus on their radar. One of those is a food processing plant that manufactures frozen goods. Garriga says that company, if it chooses to move to Americus, could bring up to 150 new jobs to the area.

The University System Board of Regents is also considering Americus for the site of a new administrative technology center. Garriga says that Americus is number one on the list of locations so far.

"We have a good building for them," he said. "We could make them a good deal. There's no profit motive."

Yet another company looking to Americus as a potential site is an Atlanta-based manufacturing company that makes heavy-duty specialty valves.

The PDA voted to extend a lease on about 479 acres of land on South Georgia Tech Parkway. A portion of the land is currently leased to Carr Farms, which sub-leases to Minor Brothers Farms.

Mike Fennessy, PDA attorney, proposed the lease extension with Carr Farms at an increased rate of $155 per acre from $150.

Fennessy said the PDA could pull out of the lease with 90 days notice if the land has prospects, if Carr Farms cannot find someone to sub-lease to, or if Carr Farms defaults.

PDA Chairman Paul Hall read a letter from Juanita Wilson, who announced her resignation from the PDA in order to enjoy her retirement and spend more time with her family.

"She was a faithful, good board member," Hall said. "We wish her well on her endeavors of her retirement and grandchildren."

The PDA then voted to give Wilson's secretary position to Bill Harris, the newest member of the PDA. "I can't even spell!" laughed Harris.

"You've been on the board officially 26 minutes and were appointed secretary," said Hall. "That's record time!"