On Wednesday morning, April 15, the Council for Quality Growth, Douglas County, and the Douglas County Chamber hosted more than 350 for the sold out 2026 State of Douglas County Address. The annual address was held over lunch at Douglasville Conference Center and presented by Amazon. Chairwoman Dr. Romona Jackson Jones of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners delivered her annual address. Over 350 Council and Chamber members, elected officials, businesses, residents, county staff, and partners of Douglas County were in attendance Wednesday.

 

Chairwoman Dr. Romona Jackson Jones delivered her 2026 State of the County address with the theme, “Service Elevated: The Douglas County Standard.” Emphasizing service as the guiding principle behind the County’s work, the Chairwoman noted that Douglas County continues to grow and thrive despite global uncertainties. She highlighted strong economic indicators, including employment growth of 8.85% between 2020 and 2025, targeted industry sector growth of 21.02%, and a 28.87% increase in income over the same period. Declaring that the State of Douglas County remains strong, Chairwoman Jackson Jones pointed to continued investments in infrastructure, public safety, and community development.

 

The Chairwoman also discussed the County’s strategic planning efforts, noting the completion of the Douglas Forward reinvestment initiative and the launch of Douglas Upward 2030, the County’s updated five-year strategic plan built around seven pillars: Safety, Mobility, Prosperity, Vitality, Participation, Trust, and Engagement. Chairwoman Jackson Jones reported that the County continues to demonstrate strong fiscal stewardship, completing the $100 million reinvestment initiative with zero debt while maximizing grant funding to support community priorities.

 

Public safety and infrastructure improvements were also highlighted during the Chairwoman’s remarks. The County has invested in Next Generation 911 technology, opened a new fire station serving the eastern portion of the county, and expanded the use of Flock Safety cameras, contributing to a 17.58% reduction in major crime in 2025. Douglas County has also advanced transportation initiatives through Connect Douglas, including securing a $400,000 grant for a transit sustainability study, installing new bus shelters, and expanding regional trail connections through partnerships with the PATH Foundation.

 

Douglas County’s continued economic development and infrastructure investment were also emphasized. The Chairwoman highlighted the groundbreaking of the Dog River Reservoir expansion project, the largest public infrastructure project in the County’s history, as well as the opening of a new Transfer Station and Recycling Center. In 2025, the County reviewed and approved 113 commercial and industrial plans and welcomed 365 new business ventures, reflecting Douglas County’s continued appeal to businesses, entrepreneurs, and residents.

 

The Council for Quality Growth works with Douglas County and its local municipalities year-round to advocate for our members doing business in those areas. “Our continued partnership with Douglas County is essential to supporting growth and creating opportunities for the business community,” said Michael E. Paris, President & CEO of the Council. “We look forward to working closely with Chairwoman Jackson Jones, the entire Commission, county staff, and local leaders to support the county’s continued success.”

 

Sara Ray, President & CEO of the Douglas County Chamber of Commerce, spoke about the significance of the event and the partnerships it fosters across the community, saying, “We are proud to partner with the Council for Quality Growth for the State of Douglas event, bringing together leaders who are committed to shaping a strong and vibrant future for our community. Chairwoman Dr. Romona Jackson Jones delivered a powerful and inspiring address centered on superior public service, reinforcing the critical role leadership plays in driving progress. Her vision aligns seamlessly with our mission, highlighting Douglas County as a place where partnerships and businesses thrive, and where collaboration continues to move our community forward.”

 

The 2026 State of Douglas also featured remarks from 2026 Council Chair & Executive Director at ATL Airport CIDs, Gerald McDowell, Douglas County’s Chief Communications Officer, Yvette Jones, and Douglas County Chamber’s President & CEO, Sara Ray and Chair, Alicia Doherty, Regional Executive for American Red Cross Georgia. Terreta Rodgers, Head of Community Affairs, Georgia Region at Amazon gave remarks as the event’s presenting sponsor and Pamela Burnett, Executive Director of the Georgia Association of Water Professionals, delivered an update on behalf of the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District. The Council for Quality Growth’s State of Douglas County is the sixth of eight State of the County events held in 2026 and annually convenes the county’s business community with its local government bodies, as well as with other local leaders from across the region.

 

A photo gallery and the recording of the full event will be made in the coming days at https://www.councilforqualitygrowth.org/news-press/