Rarely has the moment felt more energizing for those engaged in economic and community development. While my earlier years offered many meaningful experiences, what we are witnessing now feels especially pivotal.
From Supporter to Active Contributor
In recent years, my role evolved from passive observer to proactive participant within the Vicksburg–Warren Economic Development Foundation, one of the three cornerstone entities forming the Vicksburg–Warren Economic Development Partnership—alongside the Chamber of Commerce and the Port Commission. Through this deeper involvement, I’ve seen a committed network of individuals investing time, resources, and expertise so our region not only dreams but also executes transformational projects. These efforts carry the power to accelerate growth and positively redefine the trajectory of Vicksburg and Warren County.
Crafting a Strategic Roadmap
Turning grand visions into realities demands strategic design, agility in responding to macroeconomic shifts, and disciplined prioritization. It’s not easy. Striking the right balance between forward-thinking vision and rigorous execution is rare—but our team, together with partner agencies, has done this repeatedly.
This work is grounded in long hours, consistent cooperation, and prudent risk-taking, all with the aim of attracting large-scale investment and substantive jobs. Fueled by steadfast support from city and county leadership, we have already secured over $50 million in seed capital, positioning our community not just for short-term gains, but for sustainable success well past the next decade.
Tangible Results & Economic Momentum
In recent times, we’ve advanced investments in critical local assets—improving infrastructure at Ceres Industrial Park and upgrading facilities at the Port of Vicksburg. Several new businesses—Unified Brands (now Electrolux Professional), Industrial Wood Products, Winfield United, and Vicksburg Forest Products—have established themselves here and are thriving.
Existing employers haven’t stood still either: Tyson Foods, Golding Barge Line, Vicksburg Plant Food, and International Paper have all expanded operations locally. Together, these developments have translated into hundreds of new jobs, rising payrolls, and strengthened local tax receipts—clear signs that Vicksburg and Warren County’s economic health is rising.
In 2025 alone, momentum continues. At the Port of Vicksburg, new activity includes the arrival of Vicksburg Shipyard (a Terral River Service subsidiary) in March, and in May, we heralded the largest-ever private-sector investment in Warren County history—a $400 million expansion by Ergon, still the region’s biggest private employer.
These outcomes underscore what can be accomplished when the City of Vicksburg, Warren County, and the Economic Development Partnership synchronize efforts. But the true excitement lies in what the future may hold, built atop years of precise, aligned planning and execution.
Seeding the Future
Over the last five years, we’ve quietly laid foundations for growth. Projects like the South Port expansion, the creation of a certified megasite, and tech-forward investments like the Mississippi Center for Innovation and Technology (MCITy) have positioned the region for fresh opportunity. What once was forward thinking is now ready to deliver: accelerated job creation and potentially new records in investment, reminiscent of the milestone set by Ergon.
As I said at the outset, there has seldom been a more thrilling time for engagement in economic and community building. Now more than ever, our collective resolve and collaboration will prove how far Vicksburg and Warren County can journey together.
