major distribution center

By BETH LAKEY

Staff Writer

BRUNDIDGE ­ Officials have confirmed a large company is looking to locate a distribution/warehouse facility in Brundidge.

During the Brundidge City Council meeting Tuesday afternoon, a public hearing for the rezoning of property being considered for the site was set for Sept. 18. The land on County Road 6, located across from the Brundidge Country Club, is currently zoned for residential purposes. The city would consider rezoning it for manufacturing.

"There are some other pieces that have to fall into place," said Britt Thomas, Brundidge city manager.

Mayor Jimmy Ramage said the company has asked that the name not be publicized and would only confirm the site was being looked at for construction of a warehouse facility.

During a speech before the Troy Rotary Club earlier Tuesday afternoon, State Sen. Wendell Mitchell, D-Luverne, said Pike County is being considered over other areas, including Florida.

"I’ve never seen a team work together like I have to get this here," Mitchell said of those involved in luring the company to build in Pike County.

Although plenty of work has been done, "it’s not a done deal," said Marsha Gaylard, president of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce.

Gaylard said those involved have been working at least six months on this particular project.

"If it comes come to Pike County, it will be because of the team effort," she said. "People from all over Pike County have worked on this project."

In the event the facility is built in Brundidge, Gaylard said it will have a "tremendous impact on the economy of Pike County" and offer "a lot of good-paying jobs" to residents.

In other business, the council:

· Approved the rezoning of property for the possible sites of residential facilities that will be operated by East Central Mental Health-Mental Retardation. That action was taken after a public hearing was held.

The sites are on South Main Street and Old 231 and are being considered for construction of residential facilities that will be occupied by physically/mentally handicapped individuals and families.

If built, they will have a manager who lives on-site. Combined the facilities could house up to 34 people.

· Voted on an administrative contract with Roth, McHugh and Associates, which will work on the Southern Classic Food Group LLC project.

· Entered into a contract with engineering firm Bob Carter and Associates to work on both the Southern Classic Food Group and Carter Brothers projects.

· Gave a parade permit to Concerned Christians of Brundidge for a march on Oct. 13. Several churches will be involved in the event.