Highland County Economic Development Authority’s May Meeting

At the May meeting of the Highland County Economic Development Authority, the four businesses that had been chosen as recipients of Incentive Grants were announced.  They are Appalachian Welding LLC, Allegheny Lutherie, Claire Sax Catering LLC and Wind Runner Farm LLC.  The total amount for all the grants is just under $20,000.  The Highland County Board of Supervisors approved funding for all four grants in that amount, which is more than the annually budgeted amount of $15,000 for Incentive Grants.

EDA members voted to refer to the Board of Supervisors for approval the application of Jennifer Warner-Cox to fill a vacant seat on the EDA.  Member George Hogshead indicated he will continue to serve on the EDA, so the recommendation for his reappointment will also be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors.

Member Bryan Obaugh reported that the signage and the language for the kiosk at the top of Shenandoah Mountain has been approved by the Tourism Council.  The information has been turned in to the Forest Service for review and approval.

Member Chad Kimble reported that Highland Telephone Cooperative’s installation of fiber in the Mill Gap area is moving along well.

And the members agreed to continue to offer a hybrid model for EDA meetings, offering a phone option for attendees and a ZOOM option for EDA members, in addition to in-person attendance.