HA – Pickering motivates Petal business leaders

Pickering motivates Petal business leaders

Pickering was the keynote speaker for the Petal Chamber of Commerce Celebration of Business Banquet at the Petal Civic Center. He said positive sales tax and business growth over the past year means the city could be an economic leader in the Pine Belt.

“You’re in the middle of a recession and y’all are growing?” he asked, emphatically. “You’re poised to become a great economic engine.”

Petal saw a 2.5 percent increase in sales tax revenue in 2009, according to Chamber President Deborah Reynolds. She also broke news about a new franchise coming to the city.

“We will be getting a Taco Bell,” she said. “It’s official, the papers and the deal is done.”

Hattiesburg American
2/2/10