LEE COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
Southern Base of the Research Triangle Region

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, August 17, 2006


SANFORD NOTED FOR ECONOMIC STRENGTH,
RANKED 48TH AMONG U.S. 'MICROPOLITANS'


SANFORD -- Sanford's vigorous economy has been recognized once again, this time with a ranking of 48th in economic strength among nearly 600 small cities across the United States.

Rankings for this year were published recently by POLICOM, an independent economic research firm specializing in analyzing local and state economies.

The company based in Palm City, Fla., evaluated 582 'micropolitan' areas, defined in the study as "quasi-rural" regions with a city of at least 10,000 but fewer than 50,000 residents.

Sanford's ranking has been fairly consistent over the last three years. It was listed 52nd last year and 48th also in 2004.

The latest study is not the first to recognize the strong local economic climate. Site Selection magazine has taken notice, too, ranking Sanford 36th last year among America's top small towns for business.

Bob Heuts, economic development director for Lee County, said residents shouldn't be surprised when accolades come their way.

"These studies look at hard data, including growth rates and industrial statistics, so our success can be measured.

"On the other hand, it's important not to sit back and rest on our laurels. We need to continue developing the kind of climate that will continue to attract quality business and industry if we want to be successful in the future."

Being part of the renowned Research Triangle Region doesn't hurt, Heuts said. With major transportation corridors, renowned universities and a solid workforce nearby, the county should be able to hold its own.

"But it doesn't always happen that way," he said. "Some communities around the country can't seem to capitalize on their assets. You still have to be smart and keep looking for new ways to be innovative and attractive."

The nation's top micropolitan was Concord, N.H. It was followed in the "top five" by Lebanon, N.H.-Vt.; Hilton Head Island-Beaurfort, S.C.; Edwards, Colo.; and Easton, Md.

The report is available on line at policom.com/ranknum.htm.

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Media Contacts:
Bob Heuts, Director
Jane Haber, Administrative Assistant
919-774-8439 (phone)
919-775-5410 (fax)
info@lcedc.com (e-mail)

Micropolitan rankings: http://policom.com/ranknum.htm
LCEDC Media Web:       http://www.lcedc.com/media/
This release:          http://www.lcedc.com/media/releases/nr081706.txt