By David Williams
Independent-Mail
September 22, 2003

SENECA — Gov. Mark Sanford will help Oconee County recognize industry’s contributions to the Golden Corner Wednesday.

The governor is the guest speaker at the 2003 Industry Appreciation Banquet, sponsored by the Greater Seneca Chamber of Commerce in association with the Oconee County Economic Development Commission.

"His message will be jobs and economic development for that part of the state," a spokesman in the governor’s office said. "He will also talk about his effort to lower income tax and grow jobs."

More than 255 people are expected for the 7 p.m. dinner Wednesday in the Clemson Ramada Inn.

"We want the people of Oconee County to be aware of the contributions, both economically and through the citizenship of their employees," said Tracy Klukkert, president of the chamber.

Jim Alexander, executive director of the commission, said, "Oconee County has got a work force that is trainable and wants a job. I just wish we had more jobs. Oconee County companies are demonstrating innovation in technology, products, processes and services."

Mr. Alexander noted Oconee County is doing several things to create jobs including assisting existing industry and building a speculative building in hopes of luring new industry.

In 2002 Oconee County industries supported more than 8,000 jobs, paid more than $262 million in salaries and $30.5 million in county taxes.

The nearly 60 industries that have operations in Oconee County invested $28 million in capital improvements in 2002 and shipped products valued at more than $1 billion.

Twenty-one industries in the county have more than 100 employees, and 20 industries are the top taxpayers in the county including Duke Power, which paid more than $23 million last year.

"Our local companies provide jobs, support the state and local tax base and contribute to every aspect of community leadership," said Harry Hamilton, interim supervisor of Oconee County.

Industry Appreciation Week activities continue Friday when Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative will host the fourth annual industry appreciation luncheon and golf outing at Cross Creek Plantation.

On Sept. 29, the South Carolina Ambassador for Economic Development from Oconee will be given special recognition at an awards ceremony hosted by the governor at the capitol in Columbia.

Don Lesley, plant manager with Lift Technologies, is Oconee’s new ambassador who will join ambassadors from the other 45 counties. Larry Smith with Schneider Electric Square D Company is the outgoing ambassador.

"Industry Appreciation Week is an opportunity to say thank you to area companies for their many contributions to our community," said Hank Field, chairman of 2003 Industry Appreciation Week and a member of the economic development commission.

David Williams can be reached at (864) 882-0522 or by e-mail at williamsde@IndependentMail.com.

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