Diverse & Vibrant

Business

Harris County's physical location places it on the fringe of two economic engines - LaGrange, Georgia, to the north and Columbus, Georgia, to the south. Future large business growth in Harris County will depend on the development of infrastructure (such as county sewerage) or the annexation and infrastructure expansion of any of the five municipalities.

The county's largest employer is the 14,000-acre Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, which provides the foundation for the County's largest industry - tourism. Cagle's Poultry processing plant in Pine Mountain Valley is the County's second largest employer. Other businesses are in the service sector, steel fabrication, horticulture and greenhouses.

Many small businesses and retail stores are found throughout the county, but are mostly clustered in the towns of Pine Mountain, Hamilton and Waverly Hall, as well as in the unincorporated communities of Cataula, Ellerslie and Fortson.

Harris County is a member of The Valley Partnership Joint Development Authority, a multi-governmental entity. This allows for enhanced job tax credits for companies that create 25 or more new jobs in Harris County. There are many other benefits in workforce development programs and training initiatives.
Overall, Harris County has great potential for planned business growth that complements its natural scenic beauty and exceptional quality of life.

Agriculture

Although traditional row crop production is limited, agriculture in Harris County is diverse. Agricultural commodities range from agritourism to ornamental horticulture.

Ornamental horticulture is the fastest growing, and soon to be the biggest, agricultural enterprise in Harris County. This commodity group consists of container and field nurseries, greenhouses and turfgrass production.

Forestry and forest-related products (such as Christmas trees, pine straw and timber) are currently the top income producing commodities in the county.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service, the University of Georgia Extension Service and the Georgia Forestry Commission work with landowners to find the best use for their land, implement conservation and ensure a strong agriculture community for the future.

*Agricultural information based on the Farm Gate income survey. The survey results are available by calling 800-381-4381.

Financial Services

Harris County is home to two full-service commercial banks. First Peoples Bank is a locally owned community bank with branches in Pine Mountain and Hamilton and an ATM location in Cataula. Wachovia Bank has branches in Pine Mountain and Hamilton. Both banks provide a full line of loan and deposit products. Wachovia Bank also provides investment and trust services.

Numerous mortgage lenders and financial consultants are available to assist you. TIC Federal Credit Union offers services in nearby Columbus, and MEA Federal Credit Union offers financial products and services to teachers and school employees of Harris County.