Both Agree to fund a Study to enhance economic vitality of the area

The Town of Johnston and the non-profit Johnston Development Corp. have agreed to partner on a strategic plan aimed at enhancing the economic development of the historic town.

The Strategic Plan will identify socioeconomic characteristics and business advances that will benefit the town’s future economic growth and development. It will also include a current economic analysis, competitive and internal analysis, a SWOT matrix (identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats), goals, and strategies. Finally, strategy implementation and policy recommendations will be provided.

The Development Corp. Board researched the best possible way to rebuild Johnston’s future economic growth. Their research showed that two University of South Carolina Aiken professors, Dr. Salena Porca and Dr. Julie Steen, have done many studies that have proven to be beneficial in the government and non-profit sectors.

The Development Corp. Board, which also sponsors the Town’s annual Peach Blossom Festival, voted unanimously to pay half of the $20,000 cost. The nonprofit group brought the proposal to the Johnston Town Council, which also unanimously approved funding the other half of this study in a meeting held earlier this week.

Johnston Mayor Terrence Culbreath said he and the Town Council are appreciative of the Development Corp. searching for ways to improve the Town vitality.

“Small towns across America are disappearing, while the rest are trying to find new ways to not only survive but also thrive!” Mayor Culbreath said. “In our case, I believe this Strategic Plan will layout a path that will give us an excellent opportunity to help our Town, our citizens, and businesses prosper. I’m excited about the possibilities.”

Dean Campbell, Development Corp. Board Chairman, agreed, adding that while many towns complain about their economic condition, he is pleased that Johnston, citizens and government officials are joining together to see all the opportunities that can be incorporated to move the town forward.

“I believe when this Strategic Study is complete, we will have a plan we can execute toward the goal of making Johnston better in so many areas,” Campbell said. “We are appreciative of the Town’s active participation and leadership.”

The study will include an in-depth look at many statistical factors. However, it will include input from government officials, community leaders, citizens, and other stakeholders, including a Town Hall-style meeting to gather citizen opinions.

This study is expected to be completed in April of next year.

The Johnston Development Corporation, a non-profit volunteer organization, works to aid the community in areas such as economic development, education, recreation, historic preservation, tourism, scientific and cultural opportunities, and continued promotion of Johnston.

The Johnston Development Corporation (JDC) is sponsoring its third of three Spring Community Concerts in the Park in Johnston on June 4.

The Concert, which will be held 7-8 p.m., is free and open to the public, and will be held in Mims Park in front of Johnston Elementary School. The concerts are designed to present a diversity of music for concert-goers to enjoy.

Performing at the Concert on Friday, June 4: Digital Vinyl – Based in the CSRA, Digital Vinyl performs songs from back in the days of records and turntables. They are a cover band that plays all your favorite classic rock, Southern rock, and blues.

This concert will be held rain or shine. In case of rain, the concert will be moved inside the Johnston Elementary School Gym. 

No coolers or alcohol will be allowed. Concert attendees should bring their own chairs.

The Johnston Development Corporation, a non-profit volunteer organization that has helped the Town of Johnston grow in many ways for over 30 years, works to aid the community in areas such as economic development, education, recreation, historic preservation, tourism, scientific and cultural opportunities, and continued promotion of Johnston.

The Johnston Peach Blossom Festival announced today the winners of the 7th Annual Bass Fishing Tournament, held as part of the Festival on May 1. There were 38 teams participating.

First place team in the tournament was Allen Rogers and Jamie Gayle with a total of 21.66 pounds. Second place was Seth Hartley and William Bedenbough with a total of 20.74 pounds; third place was David Sullivan and Jimmy Holmes with a total of 20.42 pounds. Adult Big Fish Winner was Jacob Black and Jake Asbill with 7.18 pounds, and second in the category was Seth Hartley and William Bedenbough with 6.2 pounds.

Youth Big Fish winner was Weston Herlong with 5.6 pounds.

At this year’s Festival, thousands of patrons descended on Johnston to enjoy the day set aside to honor the peach industry, which has been so important in the development of the area. Each year, the Town goes all out with the Festival to remind citizens about the peach industry and to open its arms to visitors. 

The Johnston Peach Blossom Festival Premier Sponsor is AT&T. Other Corporate Sponsors are Edgefield County Health Care, First Citizens Bank, J.W. Yonce and Sons, NAPA of Johnston/Edgefield, Dominion Energy, Herlong Ford, National Wild Turkey Federation, Bridgestone, KJs Market, SRP Federal Credit Union, and Split Stop.

This year’s Johnston Peach Blossom Festival Entertainment Sponsors were Dr. Hugh Morgan Family Practice, Moorecraft Cabinets, Trantech Radiator Products, Regions Bank, Pendarvis Chevrolet, and Titan Farms.

The Johnston Development Corporation, a non-profit volunteer organization, sponsors the Festival. The Corporation works to aid the community in areas such as economic development, education, recreation, historic preservation, tourism, scientific and cultural opportunities, and continued promotion of Johnston.