At the House Rural Development Council meeting, Speaker David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge) called for an extension of the term of the House Rural Development Council into the 2019 – 2020 session of the General Assembly. The council had previously been set to dissolve on December 31, 2018.

“We have succeeded in drawing attention to the issue of rural economic development,” said Speaker Ralston. “Resources are being marshaled and momentum is on our side. This extension will allow members of the House Rural Development Council to thoughtfully consider additional proposals to continue building up our rural communities.”

In his remarks, Speaker Ralston thanked other groups and state agencies, including the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Department of Economic Development, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and the University of Georgia, which have launched initiatives that support the goals of the House Rural Development Council.

Speaker Ralston also called for a satellite office of the Center for Rural Prosperity & Innovation to be opened in North Georgia. The Center for Rural Prosperity & Innovation opened earlier this year on the campus of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton.

“People are excited about the Center for Rural Prosperity & Innovation and the work it is doing,” said Speaker Ralston. “I want our rural communities in North Georgia to have the same access to the center’s array of services as the residents in South Georgia have in Tifton.” 

Speaker Ralston, again, thanked the members of the House Rural Development Council for their work. He particularly noted the efforts of the council’s Co-Chairmen, Rep. Jay Powell (R-Camilla) and Rep. Terry England (R-Auburn), as well as Vice Chairman, Rep. Sam Watson (R-Moultrie).

“This council has done – and will continue to do – tremendous work for not only residents of rural Georgia, but all of Georgia,” said Speaker Ralston. “You have listened to people who, for years, felt like their concerns and suggestions weren’t making it to the Gold Dome. This council has highlighted the need for a concentrated focus on our rural areas and their ability to attract and retain jobs.”