Sumners pens chapter on “Strategies for Small Town Success”
Joe Sumners, director of the Economic and Community Development Institute, has written a chapter, "Strategies for Small Town Success," for a new book, "Building the Local Economy: Cases in Economic Development." Sumners' chapter uses case studies from Tupelo, Miss., and Uniontown, Demopolis, Eufaula and the Coastal Gateway region of Alabama to promote a holistic approach to economic development. The author suggests that small towns are best served by promoting strong and diverse community leadership that is inclusive, collaborative and connected; an engaged citizenry; and a community mindset of pride and optimism. According to Sumners, these characteristics of strong communities actually form the foundation for prosperous small town economies. The book, published by the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia, was edited by former Auburn City Manager Doug Watson and AU alumnus John Morris. It is available at www.cviog.uga.edu/store.
Tags: book, development, economic