Opportunity Alabama (OPAL) CEO Alex Flachsbart payed a visit to Selma-Dallas County Public Library to host a workshop informing local investors about Opportunity Zones.

Opportunity Zones are historically low-income areas determined by the U.S. Census and chosen by Governor Kay Ivey in March of 2018.

Investing capital gains into properties located in Opportunity Zones provides investors with significant tax incentives and investment opportunities.

OPAL’s mission is to inform communities about theses Opportunity Zones and encourage revitalization of low-income areas like Selma.

The workshop, sponsored by the Selma and Dallas County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Information Board, drew a crowd of accountants, realtors, property owners, lawyers and elected officials.

“We’re glad to have the opportunity for Alex [Flachsbart] to be here today,” said Sheryl Smedly, chamber director.

Flachsbart has spent the last six months helping people around the state understand the program.

Flachsbart said that Selma, in particular, stands to benefit from taking advantage of the Opportunity Zone due to the recent deal regarding the historic St. James Hotel.

“There are very few cities that command the same recognition that Selma does,” said Flachsbart. “Selma, as a community, can rally together and get more going on this side of downtown.”