From the Chamber's President/CEO
We’re pleased to report the first quarter of 2023 continues to demonstrate the momentum and growth that our Harrison-Boone County community has experienced the past two-plus years. The numbers tell the story.
Since January of 2019 through the end of March, we’re aware of over $158 million dollars in new capital investment. That’s dollars spent expanding our manufacturing base, educational facilities, and transportation infrastructure. It’s existing small business expansion and new retail and service offerings coming to town. It’s new quality of life enhancements throughout the community, providing enjoyment for residents and visitors alike.
In the first three months of 2023 alone, we’ve had 13 projects completed, valued at over $26 million dollars. Those capital expenditures have created 96 new jobs. Those jobs have an annual salary impact of over $1,500,000.
Looking ahead, we’ve identified another 77 projects forecasted to bring over $189 million dollars of investment to the community. That investment will create 341 new jobs with an annual salary impact of almost $13 million dollars.
With the capital investment comes untold hundreds of thousands of dollars spent in our community with local contractors and the use of local retail and service businesses.
None of this growth is without challenges. But momentum. Yes, we have momentum. And we’re fortunate to have a collaborative effort with many like-focused organizations in the community helping generate that momentum. Here’s to looking ahead!
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The Chamber’s 2023 Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon is in the books! With a sold-out crowd, presented by Equity Bank for the fourth year, Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald keynoted the event, laying out a number of economic development opportunities for our community, as well as for the state.
Miss Arkansas 2022, Harrison’s own Ebony Mitchell, announced the best of the best award recipients. Prime Business of the Year, Wabash. Main Street Business of the Year, Kastle Graphics. Agri Business of the Year, Amber and Josh Thomason. Non-Profit Organization of the Year, Camp Jack. Jerry McFarland Outstanding Youth of the Year, Gunner Duck. Jim DeVito Tourism Award, Judy McCutcheon. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity Award, Harrison Mayor Jerry Jackson. Terry Stambaugh Special Merit Award, Mitch Magness. Thanks to the many community and chamber investors for a truly successful event!
We are taking care of business for the community! Cheers, Bob
Robert “Bob” Largent
President/CEO
Harrison Regional Chamber of Commerce
