More jobs coming to Montgomery County

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Miss. (WCBI) – A groundbreaking Wednesday was a sign of things to come and more jobs in Montgomery County.

Stribling Equipment and Empire Truck Sales are building a one-shop construction equipment store.

Not too long ago the town’s economy took two big hits, losing Walmart and Fred’s Pharmacy.

Economic development is vital for a small town like Winona.

With Stribling Equipment setting up shop, city leaders are ready to get the town back on its feet.

In a couple of months, Winona will open its door to a new business.

Owner Jason Stribling Greener said customers are able to rent or purchase new and used construction equipment.

“It’s about taking care, or being in the area where the customers are, whether they’re on the interstate or in these communities. And just to have this presence here and to make this investment here. To see it finally breaking ground and to see it coming up is exciting,” said Greener.

Mayor Jerry Flowers said the goal was to create more jobs for those in town or living nearby.

“It’s very important for the local economy. They’re going to hire quite a number of people that’s going to help our sales tax, our revenue in the city of Winona. This right here will show the community and people who are traveling through we still are here and we’re going to survive,” said Flowers.

An economic boost is just what the city of Winona needs after suffering two big losses.

Director of Economic Development Sue Stidham is hopeful this will put Winona back on a steady financial path.

“We are not only are we looking at the sales tax, that means property taxes and taxes from the businesses or the people they will bring to town to buy our gas so it’s a plus all the way around for us,” said Stidham.

With more businesses coming in, there’s an opportunity for more companies to be interested in the area.

“It’s just the fact that it’s bringing attention to this part of the state. I think it’ll draw the attention of other vendors and businesses to want to move here,” said Stidham.

Project construction is set to be finished in the spring of 2020.