Franklin County retirees learn about local industry program

Sherye Price, Franklin County Industry Coordinator, presented the program “Industries of Franklin County” at the Franklin County Education Retirees Association April meeting. It took place at the Russellville First Methodist Church Ministry Center where retirees were treated to a delicious luncheon provided by CB&S.

Price’s presentation focused on Franklin County as a strong industrial base made up of more than 60 companies. Franklin County has many industrial sites and buildings with quick access to shipping routes and two AdvantageSite Certified Industrial Parks.

Franklin County Industry offers competitive tax incentives and business assistance programs to help industries locate and expand existing facilities within the county, as well as non-tax incentives including Workforce Recruitment Training Programs; TVA Programs including Valley Investment Initiative and Energy Efficiency Loan Program; grants and other assistance programs and Small Business Administration loans.

She stated that Franklin County has an ideal location with four-lane access to Interstate 22 and Interstate 65 and access to railways and nearby airports, as well as a low cost of living.

Franklin County Education Retirees Association Officers for the 2024-2026 were elected:  President, Sandy Gibson; vice-president, Brenda Oliver; secretary, Faye Swinney; and treasurer, Judy Baker.

Representing Franklin County Education Retirees Association (FCERA), President Sandy Gibson and Judy Ory attended the AERA Retiree Day meeting at the State House in Montgomery April 3.  There were more than 400 retirees in attendance. The purpose of this event was to advocate for funding the Education Retirees Trust Fund.  FCERA delegation met with Sen. Larry Stutts and Rep. Jamie Kiel. The main concern of the retirees was that even though inflation continues to rise, there has not been a cost of living appropriated for retirees in 18 years.

Since this was FCERA’s last meeting until October, there was some business that needed to be addressed. Members passed a motion that would reimburse the organization’s president for travel to state meetings. Members also approved $100 for facility use and a $500 scholarship for a Franklin County student planning to pursue a career in education.

Members were asked to submit which committee(s) they would like to serve on—Legislative; Community Service Project; Membership; or Food Service. President Gibson also requested members to turn in ideas for program topics.