IDA Updates: Integer Expansion, GA Power Easements, and Plans to Improve Website

By LYDIA BERGLAR
News Editor

In their Oct. 17 meeting, the Industrial Development Authority reviewed completed and current projects. Carey Anderson also led the discussion on plans to improve the IDA website and branding.

Executive Director Evan Stone began with an update on the Integer expansion project and the CHI Memorial roof project.

“It’s been a productive month,” he said. The roof is completely done, and the expansion is underway. Chairman James Cantrell noted that along with the expansion, Integer is hiring new employees to further their production.

Stone then reviewed easement requests from Georgia Power. In particular, Georgia Power is seeking easements on Vanguard and JMS Metal Services properties that are in IDA’s name, along with a few other properties.

Stone also mentioned the upcoming city audit by the Chattanooga branch of Henderson Hutcherson and McCullough (HHM). The cost is $3,150 for the audit.

The North Georgia Joint Development Authority will meet on Nov. 2 at noon. Every three months, NGJDA visits each of the four counties.

Stone noted that everyone on the IDA is invited, saying, “It’s a very productive and quick meeting.” Cantrell added, “It’s also a good opportunity for our board members to meet with them…It would be a good showing for as many of our representatives as can come to do so.”

Dade County Public Information Officer Carey Anderson led the discussion on website redesign and logo rebranding for the IDA. Stone noted that the money for this project has already been approved.

Anderson said, “I would love for the board to have a very active hand with the information that goes on this website.” She noted that the county updated their branding when they updated their website, and that this is an opportunity for the IDA to do the same.

One positive result of this project is that Anderson will now be managing the page and can quickly make edits, keeping information updated and accurate. Stone proposed the formation of a subcommittee of two board members to compile the information to be included on the new website. Seth Houts and Lisa Cagle volunteered for the subcommittee. The goal date to have the website up and running is Jan. 1, 2023.

Stone then addressed the lease with CHI Memorial, and Robin Rogers gave the update. With the lease agreed upon, the final copy will be sent to Rogers by the broker before the end of October. Once signed by Rogers, the lease will be official.

Lastly, Stone said that they have not heard anything back about the two RFI projects, Project Abraham and Project Mayfair.

The IDA entered executive session to discuss real estate.