By by Kerry Whipple Bean – publisher
Coastal Gateway Economic Development Authority board members met for the first time as a five-county organization Wednesday.
CGEDA recently merged with Twin Rivers Economic Development Authority, adding Clarke and Choctaw counties to the organization made up of representatives from Monroe, Escambia and Conecuh counties.
The merger gives the economic development organization a broader region and more resources.
Much of the meeting was devoted to housekeeping measures for the newly merged group, including approval of a new budget.
Lovelace said the position was budgeted at $100,000.
CGEDA is also considering a second office in Grove Hill. The current office is located on Alabama 41 just off Interstate 65 near Brewton.
Lovelace said he believes the numbers for pledged donations are solid figures for both the former CGEDA and Twin Rivers EDA. Coastal Gateway is in its third year of five-year pledges, while Twin Rivers is in its first.
EDA members also approved a nominating committee to present a slate of officers at the next meeting in April.
In other business: