The Development Authority of Polk County (DAPC) is considering a no cost partnership agreement with JM Williams Contractors, Willconso, Inc., Marietta.

The agreement would provide an additional marketing tool for industrial prospects. It would enhance opportunity for quick response by showing ways preferred structures could be placed on available land.

DAPC board members heard a presentation on the proposal from company representatives Jeffery M. Williams, president and CEO and Brad Campbell, business development.

Williams said JM Williams Contractors could provide a pre-engineered 50,000-square-foot expandable building with 5,000 square foot of office space. It could be delivered within 100 days at a cost of about $1.5 million.

“We want to be part of something that would attract industry to Polk County,” he said.

Williams emphasized that a change in the size would add a few weeks to the 100 days. He gave this opinion following a question from Rockmart City Manager Jeff Ellis about a 100,000-square-foot building.

Campbell gave specific details on a virtual spec building. He pointed out that it would allow DAPC President Eric McDonald opportunity to immediately show prospects different ways a structure could be placed on a preferred industrial site.

McDonald, during the October board meeting, also gave a report on a recent Northwest Georgia bus tour, which brought 27 project managers from the Department of Economic Development, Department of Labor and others. Representatives from Georgia Power, EMC and other companies accompanied the group.

While in Polk, they were joined by a local delegation and invited to tour the industrial parks. Several of the visitors chose to ride an ATV for a closer look at progress and opportunity for prospects in Polk.

“I was impressed by the way it was organized,” said DAPC Chairman Roger Waldrop. “Eric did a great job in putting the tour together.”

McDonald also gave an update on Phase 2 of the Cedartown North Business Park access road. He said that trees have been cleared and earth was being moved.

He said progress continues on the new speculative building. The next step is a conceptual layout of the building.

Ellis reminded of the importance of being a good neighbor to AT&T, which is located near the construction site. Discussion was held on ways to landscape the area between the two buildings and make contact with company officials.

David Williams and Charles Pinkard were approved for reappointment. The group’s recommendation will be sent to the Polk County Board of Commissioners for approval.

Alan Dean also gave an in-depth report on insurance coverage for DAPC, including board members.