The Development Authority of Bryan County (DABC) welcomed regional employers, industry partners, and community leaders on Wednesday, February 25, for its Q1 Employer’s Forum, held at the HL-GA Battery Company facility.
The quarterly gathering brought together public and private sector stakeholders to discuss the evolving economic landscape, governance updates, and the policies shaping continued growth in Bryan County.
The forum opened with networking and breakfast, followed by welcoming remarks from Mary Beth Kennedy, Senior Public Relations Specialist for HL-GA Battery Company, and an overview from DABC CEO Ryan Purvis, who emphasized the importance of maintaining open dialogue between employers and local leadership as Bryan County continues to experience unprecedented investment and job creation.
The program featured a series of updates focused on local governance and taxation. Audra Miller, Bryan County Community Development Director, provided insight into ongoing planning and development initiatives supporting responsible growth. Elizabeth Todd, Bryan County Chief Appraiser, and Tax Commissioner Pamela Gunter shared updates on assessment processes and tax administration, offering clarity on topics of importance to employers operating in the region.
The second half of the forum highlighted Bryan County’s position within the broader regional and statewide economy. Dorie Bacon of the Georgia Department of Economic Development discussed available state-level incentives and credits designed to support business expansion. Jason Coley of Georgia Power addressed energy infrastructure and long-term planning needed to sustain industrial growth, while Stacy Watson of the Georgia Ports Authority outlined logistics trends and global trade opportunities tied to the Port of Savannah’s continued expansion.
The event concluded with an open roundtable discussion, allowing attendees to engage directly with presenters, ask questions, and share perspectives on workforce, infrastructure, and economic competitiveness.
“The Employer’s Forum continues to serve as an important platform for collaboration,” said Ryan Purvis, CEO of the Development Authority of Bryan County. “By bringing together industry leaders and public partners, we ensure Bryan County remains proactive, informed, and positioned for long-term success.”
Save the Date: The Development Authority of Bryan County will host its next Employer’s Forum on May 5, 2026, where regional employers will participate in a focused discussion analyzing the regional wage and benefit research, providing valuable benchmarking insights gathered from local industries to help businesses remain competitive in a rapidly evolving labor market.
The DABC Employer’s Forum is held quarterly as part of the Authority’s ongoing commitment to supporting existing industries, strengthening partnerships, and fostering a business environment where companies can thrive.
For more information about the Development Authority of Bryan County and upcoming programs, visit bryancountyga.com.