The Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2016 White County Business EXPO July 22 at the White County Fairgrounds.
Almost 75 White County businesses were represented. The event averages 1,000 to 1,500 guests, and this year was no exception despite the 112-degree heat.
The by-invitation only event featured Searcy Regional Economic Development Corporation President, Ricky Floyd, Searcy Mayor David Morris and Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce President, Buck Layne.
Mr. Floyd, Mayor Morris, and Mr. Layne spoke about recent Searcy activities and events including the ice cream social celebration of the completion of the Downtown Beautification Project. They also confirmed several businesses coming to Searcy including Hobby Lobby, Ulta, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Shoe Show, Petco, Ross Dress for Less and TJ Maxx, which will bring 200 to 300 jobs and Orr Toyota which will bring about 45 jobs to Searcy. The Sonic on Race Street is moving to the corner of Race and Benton to take the place of the former Wendy’s. Rent One Furniture will be in the former China Star and Dirt Cheap will be in the former Country Mart.
The mayor touched on the eight-year one cent sales tax plan which has provided funding for the new airport terminal, Holiday of Lights, downtown beautification project, Rialto Theatre revitalization, Pioneer Village new restrooms, Child Safety Center, fiber optic network, the IT building under construction behind City Hall, restroom/press box/concession stand facility out at the football field at the sports complex, new sanitation trucks, new police vehicles, the land acquisition adding to the sports complex where the new pool is being constructed, the new lot at the fire station, the renovations at the animal shelter and the street pavement.
The Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the White County Business EXPO sponsors: Unity Health, Bryce Corporation, Ritter Communications, The Daily Citizen, Arkansas Federal Credit Union, Arkansas State University Beebe, Classic Fare Catering, Premium Refreshment Service, Cool 104.7, KFFB 106.1, Crain Media Team, The Lake 101.9 and White County Cable TV.