Calhoun Chamber, JSU CED Present Annual Economic Forum March 11

03/04/2015

Each year, Jacksonville State University's Center for Economic Development updates the Calhoun County Chamber’s membership on the state of the economy in Calhoun County, the state, and the nation. The presentation for 2015 is set for Wednesday, March 11, from 8-9 a.m. at the Civilian Marksmanship Program, 1470 Sentinel Drive, Anniston.

This year’s forum marks the 13th annual Economic Update for the Chamber, which includes the results of a recent economic outlook prediction Chamber membership survey for the upcoming year. 

According to 2015 presenter Dr. Mark Hearn of JSU, “State, county, and municipal revenues from the area are holding steady or increasing. Lodging taxes in the county are up.  Home sales are up significantly. The Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce Membership Survey reports a significant uptick in sales.  Unemployment is down.  However, the decline is driven primarily by a shrinking labor force.  The total number of employed has declined.  Most of that decrease in employment is isolated to one main area in the county. Other economic indicators look favorable.”

The Center for Economic Development at JSU concentrates on providing specialized assistance and expertise to area business and government. Examples of services provided include economic impact studies, marketing surveys, employee attitude assessment, training, and personnel and pay plan development. 

The 13th annual Economic update begins at 7:30 a.m. with continental breakfast. Cost of attendance is $20 for Chamber Members and $30 for non-members. Call the Chamber at 256-237-3536 to RSVP and join us on March 11.