Celebrating the organizations that empower local economic development brought business leaders and local officials together for Graves County Economic Development’s (GCED) Skybox Partners Celebration held Feb. 19 at CFSB in Mayfield.
110 guests were in attendance, representing the partners whose financial support is critical to GCED’s continuing success in bolstering new and existing business and driving job creation.
GCED President Jason Lemle set the stage with his introductory remarks: “Each and every one of you have partnered with us and I want to thank you for everything. You make it possible for us to do what we do. Without your support and your constant communication, none of our accomplishments would be possible.”
As leading contributors, representatives from the City of Mayfield, Graves County Fiscal Court, West Kentucky Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation (WKRECC) and US Bank joined Lemle in addressing the gathering.
Mayfield Mayor Kathy O’Nan encouraged guests to be positive advocates for the community. “You’ve invested your dollars, you've invested your time and Jason (Lemle) works hard every day to bring economic development to our community. But our job is to tell our positive story. There are so many wonderful things going on here, and we need to tell that story. I'm excited about what these next years are going to bring.”
Graves County Commissioner Todd Hayden represented the county and expressed appreciation for GCED’s efforts and excitement about future opportunities. “We really have a lot to be thankful for with new development and business and industry expansions happening in Graves County,” said Hayden. “With the new developments at the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant site, if Graves County is prepared, we're going to have the opportunity to bring some related business across the county line. It’s going to be important to all of us, so we really need to get behind GCED and support their efforts.”
West Kentucky Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation (WKRECC) is a longstanding GCED supporter and Jodie Hansen, WKRECC Communications Coordinator, said WKRECC is deeply invested in the communities they serve. “That includes supporting strong, sustainable economic growth,” said Hansen. “That's why we choose to support GCED financially. When new businesses choose to locate here, when existing businesses choose to expand, and when jobs are created, our entire community benefits. As a cooperative, our success is directly tied to the success of our members. By investing in economic development, we're investing in our future.”
US Bank Wealth Management Consultant Steven Elder cited local history to demonstrate Mayfield and Graves County have aways been willing to come together and work hard to pursue opportunities and that spirit continues today with GCED. “They're the ones that go to Louisville, go to Lexington, go to Frankfort, and advocate on our behalf. We have sites ready. We have well-trained people here that are ready to fill those jobs, and we have one of the greatest economic development teams in the Commonwealth. Just as in the past, there is a company somewhere that's considering Mayfield or Graves County and GCED is trying to make sure that we win. So, on behalf of US Bank, we thank you for all that you do.”
GCED’s leading supporters were recognized throughout the event on scrolling video displays and each was presented with a personalized gift commemorating their support.
To learn more about GCED or to become a supporter, click here.