Economic Development
Development Authority
The Moultrie-Colquitt County Development Authority is a statutory authority funded by the City of Moultrie, as well as Colquitt County. It is charged with two main objectives: to create jobs, and to expand the tax base. Recruitment of industry is a significant function; yet, aiding in existing industry expansion and retention is just as significant. 80% of new jobs come as a result of existing industry expansion. The Development Authority visits these industries on a regular basis to assist with any projects or concerns.
The City of Moultrie is crucial to the success of the Development Authority. Not only does the City provide funding, but the Development Authority also utilizes City resources and staff when working a new project or accommodating the needs of a local industry. City utility staff and engineers provide detailed information on infrastructure costs and availability. They provide very valuable information to a prospect looking at details of the manufacturing process. Other staff is utilized as well. The City administers a Revolving Loan fund, which provides low interest loan money for new and existing industry. Many small to medium projects have been funded in this way. The City has a multiplicity of resources that are provided on a daily basis.
The partnership between the Development Authority and the City and County will lead to a bright future for Moultrie and Colquitt County. The Development Authority is working hard to diversify the tax base, the industry base, as well as promote economic growth and stability in Southwest Georgia. Rural Georgia has distinct challenges such as workforce development and transportation infrastructure, but a team oriented approach to education, economic growth, and these other issues, will ultimately lead to a more productive future.
Ideal Business Environment
With Moultrie’s geographic location, industry benefits, and well-educated labor force, it is an ideal place for business. Moultrie was recently rated by the American Chamber of Commerce Association as one of the most affordable places to live in Georgia.
Transportation
Moultrie has the four-lane US highway 319, which serves as a chief connector to Interstate 75 and Interstate 10. State Routes 33, 133, 202, 35, and 111 also serve Moultrie. The Gulf-Ohio rail service, and The Greyhound bus service are two transportation services provided in Moultrie. The Tallahassee Airport is found only 60 miles away from Moultrie. This airport provides services by US Airways, Delta, and Florida Air Tran. Moultrie provides a site for light and private aircraft, at Moultrie Municipal Airport, and Moultrie Regional Industrial Park.
Utilities
Moultrie is serviced by Georgia Power Company, Colquitt Electric Membership Corporation, and Municipal Electric for all electricity needs. Moultrie owns its natural gas distribution system and purchases gas wholesale from Municipal Gas Authority of Georgia. A capacity of 11 million gallons of water is found at all water treatment plants. Yet, consumption is only 3 million gallons per day, which means there is plenty of water available to new customers.
Labor Force and Training
Moultrie’s population includes well-educated individuals, who are ready to contribute to the development and success of the area’s business enterprises. This region has a training program called “Quick Start”. This training program trains employees to be more productive, saving time and expense. This indicates the data for Colquitt, Brooks, Cook, Mitchell, Thomas, Tift, and Worth Counties. The labor force includes residents of the county who are working or seeking work. This table indicates the size and composition of the labor force.
County Labor Force Employed Unemployed Rate
Colquitt 20,247 18,522 1,726 8.5%
Brooks 7,873 7,376 497 6.3%
Cook 8,028 516 512 6.4%
Mitchell 11,715 10,961 754 6.4%
Thomas 22,395 21,237 1,158 5.2%
Tift 20,821 19,949 872 4.2%
Worth 9,502 8,844 658 6.9%
Colquitt Area 100,581 87,405 6,177 6.28%
Available Sites and Buildings
Moultrie ensures a general economic solidity with its successful agricultural, manufacturing, service, and distribution businesses. New employees gain advantage to Moultrie’s low cost, reliable utilities, existing transportation, skilled labor force, comprehensive job training, and its prime location.
