Georgia Department of Economic Development

The board meeting included several key presentations and actions. The Director of Development for Forward Rabun presented on Rabun County's economic base, which is centered on tourism and hospitality, noting unique geographic features and constraints on land development, while aiming to create jobs with benefits. The Dillard House Redevelopment Plan was detailed by the Resort Manager, followed by the developer, Legacy Ventures, who outlined the $68 million project components, including restaurant renovation, a new brewery and tavern, farm restoration, lodging expansion, and anticipated completion in early 2027, noting the critical role of the Georgia Tourism Tax Act credit. Updates were provided on Arts initiatives, including retreats, programs for the juvenile justice system, festivals, and a traveling exhibit. The Center of Innovation reported on collaborations with entrepreneurship hubs and free consulting services focused on manufacturing and logistics. The Film division noted the impact of recent strikes but highlighted steady work from episodic productions, providing substantial economic metrics for projects like Stranger Things Season 5. Global Commerce reported record investment and job creation in FY25, with a strong focus on Rural Development Initiative deployment. International Relations noted Georgia hosts representatives from 73 countries. Marketing detailed a state branding refresh. Tourism reported on the Governor's Tourism Conference and record visitation numbers. Trade reported on FY export performance, with aerospace leading categories, and provided an example of export assistance to a small business. The Georgia Aerospace & Defense Alliance (GADA) presented its priorities focusing on policy, innovation, and talent development, including a teaser announcement about all Georgia engineering schools joining GADA in December 2025. The Commissioner presented performance updates, noting state projects track high despite regional downturns, discussed international missions, the 2026 World Cup strategy, and introduced the new government affairs liaison. Finally, the Board voted to support a resolution requesting the State Properties Commission authorize a revocable license agreement and potential easement for AT&T to relocate communication lines on the Rivian Site in Walton and Morgan Counties.

The meeting included presentations on the Georgia Council for the Arts, which awarded 329 grants totaling $4.5 million; the Center of Innovation, highlighting a study showing $25 million in new investment generated from a $250,000 grant; and the film industry's record-breaking $4.4 billion investment in Georgia. The Commissioner's report also covered significant economic development projects, including $13 billion in investments and 17,500 jobs created, and record-setting international trade numbers exceeding $196 billion. A panel discussion on collaborative regional economic development focused on challenges and opportunities in South Atlanta, including workforce development, infrastructure needs, and regional collaboration efforts.

The meeting included presentations on Kia's operations, Troup County's economic development projects, and a panel discussion on Kia's impact. Key topics discussed were Kia's manufacturing processes, workforce development challenges and successes, and the importance of public-private partnerships. Resolutions were passed regarding land conveyance for the Rivian project and a revocable license agreement for sewer and water access. Reports were given on Quick Start training programs, existing industry and regional recruitment efforts, early childhood development initiatives, and the state's film industry and international relations.

The meeting included presentations on the Savannah JDA, highlighting the Hyundai project and related supplier investments, and regional projects in Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, and Effingham counties. An export services presentation discussed Georgia's trade performance, challenges for small businesses, and partnerships between state and federal agencies. A Georgia Tourism presentation focused on travel sentiment, marketing strategies, and economic impact. The board voted on resolutions concerning the Savannah Convention Center Authority Bond, GTC, and Newton Water. A legislative update covered various bills, including those related to state employee salaries, Center of Innovation funding, and small business opportunities. The Commissioner's report included updates on the Council for the Arts, Center of Innovation, Film Office, Global Commerce, Rivian, small business initiatives, international trade, and tourism.

The meeting included presentations on the state's economic upswing, Thomasville's economic development success, and workforce development initiatives. A resolution was approved to transfer custody of certain state property to the Georgia Department of Transportation. Updates were provided on the Georgia Film Office's 50th anniversary, the Center of Innovation's activities, and the state's international relations, including the Governor's acceptance of The Korea Society's Van Fleet Award. The record-breaking FY23 tourism numbers were also highlighted, along with the robust growth in the Technical College System of Georgia.