EORGIA STRATEGIC Y In a state where only three cities have achieved Border Region Retail Tourism Development District status, East Ridge is Tennessee’s most successful example of strategic economic transformation. The 8.3-square-mile city bordering Georgia has generated nearly $800 million in sales tax growth since receiving its designation in 2011, earning the 2024 Excellence in Economic Development Award from the Tennessee Municipal League. With a population of 22,034 and median household income of $55,988, East Ridge has reversed decades of sales tax leakage across state lines through innovative financial incentives and targeted business development. Mayor Brian Williams attributes the City’s turnaround to a focused approach.“Economic development is the driving force that has turned the City of East Ridge around. We’ve been able to achieve numerous new 2 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
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