LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Written by Mr. Wesley Webb, President, Lee County Board of Supervisors

As 2024 comes to a close, I am grateful to reflect on the progress Lee County has made over the
past year. Serving as President of the Lee County Board of Supervisors has been both an honor and a privilege. I am proud to highlight our county’s many successes, made possible through collaboration, strategic
planning, and a commitment to the common good.

Without question, 2024 has been a monumental year for economic development in Lee County. This year, we proudly welcomed nine new or expanding industries, showcasing an impressive diversity of sectors. Highlights include major expansions by Ashley Furniture and Grammer and the arrival of new industries such as Exxel Outdoors and Liebherr Logistics USA.

These companies contribute to a wide range of products, including furniture, automotive seating, sporting and athletic goods, and logistics warehousing. These projects are not just headlines; they are investments
in the future of our community. Together, they represent $336 million in new capital investment and bring 991
new jobs to Lee County residents. These are jobs that offer opportunities, create financial stability for families, and strengthen our local economy. The total payroll created by these 991 new jobs is over $43 million, a clear indicator of the confidence businesses have in Lee County and the workforce that supports them.

The location of Liebherr Logistics USA to the Hive Business Park, which included an exciting and well-attended groundbreaking ceremony a few weeks ago on December 5, represents years of vision, collaboration, and investment by our community and its partners at every level. Roughly a decade ago, Lee County and the City of Tupelo, along with CDF, began working diligently to identify, prepare, and market
our next-generation business park for the future of our region.

The growth of our county is essential for long-term stability, and I am proud to report that Lee County’s tax base continues to thrive. This year, the overall assessed value of property in Lee County increased by an impressive 13.3%. This growth is critical. A growing tax base allows us to keep taxes low while still delivering the high-quality services our citizens expect. From maintaining infrastructure to investing in public safety and education, Lee

County remains committed to being a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars. A great example of this type of investment is the work the board has done to explore a much-needed adult detention facility. Thanks in large part to our County Administrator Ronnie Bell, our consultant team, and the work of the board, Lee County has completed all preliminary studies for the new facility, laying the groundwork for construction to begin in 2025. This work represents our ongoing commitment to public safety, rehabilitation, and ensuring that Lee County remains a safe place for families and businesses.

The cornerstone of our success this year has been the strong working relationships among our Board of Supervisors members. With a newly seated board, including George Rutledge and Barry Parker serving in their inaugural year, it was important to establish a foundation of trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for the future of Lee County. I am proud to say that every board member has embraced their role with a spirit of unity and collaboration.

The Board of Supervisors is charged with making decisions that impact citizens across all districts. Our ability to work together, setting aside individual differences, ensures that we are prioritizing the common good for everyone in Lee County. I am grateful for each member of the board—their hard work, dedication, and willingness to roll up their sleeves to make our county a better place. Together, we are laying a solid foundation for growth and success in the years to come.

Strong partnerships have also played a key role in achieving long-term success. Together with the Appalachian Regional Commission, Mississippi Development Authority, Three Rivers Planning & Development District, Tennessee Valley Authority, and Community Development Foundation, we have been able to spur economic growth while ensuring that Lee County remains an attractive place for businesses and families alike. The results speak for themselves: a growing tax base, new industries, and new career opportunities for Lee County citizens.

As we reflect on the accomplishments of 2024, we do so with gratitude and optimism. Lee County is a special place—a place where hard work, strong values, and a sense of community guide everything we do. From new businesses to new facilities, we are building a future that benefits everyone.

It has been an honor to serve as President of the Board of Supervisors this year and to celebrate another landmark year for our county. I am so grateful to my fellow board members, and I look forward to working with incoming Board President Tommie Lee Ivy to make Lee County stronger than ever. I have no doubt that 2025 will bring even greater opportunities for growth and success.

I wish each of you a happy and prosperous New Year! Together, we will continue to build a brighter future for Lee County.

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