Clay Looking Forward To Opportunities Through New TDEC Initiative

Clay County Mayor Dale Reagan is looking forward to meeting with TDEC about the development of Clay’s tourism industry.

TDEC announced a new initiative Wednesday aimed at growing tourism industries in rural and distressed counties by leveraging state lands. Reagan said that the opportunity to highlight their area using nearby Standing Stone, Dale Hollow Lake, and other natural areas could give the county the economic boost it needs.

“Because when you get folks in and you get them to stay here with you a little while, you’ll gain some revenue from them,” Reagan said. “Whether it be renting a room, or buying gas, food to eat, or a fishing license, whatever it may be. I think it will be a win-win for us all.”

Reagan said by emphasizing what Clay has to offer, they can hopefully even bring people in to stay permanently.

“As I always say, we’re going to treat you so many ways you’ve got to like one of them,” Reagan said. “And so hopefully they’ll see this area and maybe they decide ‘Hey that may be a place I want to come back to and retire.’ And they’ll become a permanent resident. That’s hopefully what the outcome will be.”

He said that they plan to meet to discuss options in November.