Leaders of Vision 2020 announced Tuesday that the quadrennial fund-raiser to support the budget of the Selma-Dallas County Economic Development Authority has exceeded its goal of $1.25 million.

Although the exact figure was not released, co-chair Steve Flanagan did say that the goal had been exceeded by a substantial margin.

This is a solid indication of confidence in the leadership and direction of the economic development efforts being undertaken in the Selma-Dallas County area.

The money raised by Vision 2020 goes to fund the Economic Development Authority, which is charged with attracting new business to the area and increasing the level of employment. Along with the Selma-Dallas County Chamber of Commerce and the Tourism Bureau, the authority is part of the Centre for Commerce. The centre, which officially moves into its new facility in the old Carnegie Library today, functions as a sort of umbrella agency for the economic development efforts in this area.

There are strong indications that the new setup is working. Lear Corporation’s recent announcement that it was locating at least two tier two Hyundai suppliers in the Selma area is only the latest of several such indicators.

Vision 2020’s announcement appears to be an endorsement from the community it serves that the centre’s efforts are on track.

Fran Pearce, campaign director, stated that pledges had been received from some 150 individuals and businesses to support the Economic Development Authority’s efforts.

We applaud those who have stepped forward to help further economic development in this area. And we congratulate the leaders of Vision 2020 for a successful and much needed campaign.