These modern facilities, which leverage robotics and automation, also offer a wealth of high-paying jobs. Additionally, the Olive Branch Airport is the busiest in Mississippi in terms of fixed-wing and corporate aviation takeoffs and landings. It serves as the only airport in DeSoto County and provides relief to Memphis International. The presence of three flight schools at the airport actively trains future pilots for military, commercial, cargo, and corporate aviation, contributing significantly to the airport’s high activity levels and creating a vital talent pipeline. LOCAL BUSINESS IMPACT AND FUTURE OUTLOOK Olive Branch’s economic vitality is also powerfully driven by its diverse range of local businesses, which not only provide substantial employment but also contribute significantly to the community’s welfare and tax base. The Homer Skelton Foundation and its car dealerships stand out for their exceptional philanthropy, donating $600,000 towards the city’s new pickleball courts and providing body-worn cameras for police officers. Other significant investments include a $9.2 million, 116–job investment from OSB Services LLC, a $13.17 million, 80–job investment from Voyant Beauty Supply, and a $14.5 million, 300–job investment from Material Bank. The city is also home to major distribution centers for prominent companies like Milwaukee Tools, Amazon, Walmart, McKesson Pharmaceuticals, and Cardinal Health. These large industrial employers are instrumental in maintaining Olive Branch’s remarkably low unemployment rate, which is under 2%, and contribute significantly to its tax base, helping Olive Branch maintain the lowest millage rate in DeSoto County. 9 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 07 OLIVE BRANCH, MS
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