2001 Annual Report Executive Summary
Hardee County Champion Community
During 2001, significant change to Hardee County’s economic development practice has occurred. The Economic Development Director position was abolished and responsibilities absorbed by the Asst County Manager with the assistance of one ED Specialist. Further, the Economic Development Council resigned and its functions absorbed by the County Commissioners, a county Industrial Development Authority and special community interest organizations. Despite the reorganizations, significant steps toward the realization of the community’s “vision” were made throughout the year, or initiated. Benchmarking activities have illustrated select reported progress while the need for flexibility within the leadership has borne fruit in many other areas supporting future efforts at economic growth. The strong efforts of the County Commissioners combined with direct county manager support have focused on initiating infrastructure revitalization and development (e.g. roads & bridges and waste water treatment plants). Loans and grants have been secured for over $10 million in funding to realize this goal. Local USDA reps have assisted in support of nearly $3 million in loans and grants for low-mod income farm worker housing development.