Clay County officials were on hand at the annual Governor’s Conference to receive their ThreeStar certification plaque for the county’s continued participation in the statewide strategic community development program, which assists counties in preparing for a better future.

Shown here (left to right) are state Economic and Community Development Commissioner Bob Rolfe,  Clay County Chamber of Commerce director Kevin Donaldson, statewide ThreeStar director Jody Sliger, Clay County ThreeStar director Dr. Doug Young, Gov. Bill Lee, Clay County Mayor Dale Reagan, 38th District State Rep. Kelly Keisling, Upper Cumberland Development District Director Mark Farley, and state ECD deputy assistant commissioner Brooxie Carlton.  The ThreeStar program now incorporates asset-based planning initiatives and a two-year timeline to accomplish goals, the state website says. The asset-based planning component helps communities develop goals to maximize their local assets to drive economic development. Starting in 2019, biennial grants are available to counties to align with one of the community’s identified goals.  (photo submitted)