Perry looking ahead to growth during the city’s Bicentennial

According to Perry Mayor Randall Walker, residents can expect to see more residential, commercial and industrial growth for the city.

PERRY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — 2024 is a year full of celebrations in Perry, as the city recognizes the 200th year of its founding.

Perry Mayor Randall Walker, says the city is not only celebrating its Bicentennial, but also recent growth.

“We added about three-hundred-seventy homes in the past year. We anticipate that growth and residential to be about the same,” said Mayor Walker.

Mayor Walker says commercial and industrial growth is also on the way.

From the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant and Jack Link’s snack manufacturer, to the completion of a new Veterans Affairs clinic, Mayor Walker explains growth can increase the city’s tax base, help improve city services and bring in new high paying jobs.

“I think that the VA is going to offer some very attractive jobs and in their environment there in the atmosphere that they’re be working in,” said Mayor Walker.

He says managing growth is the key to protecting quality of life for its residents. That’s why last year, the city focused on addressing staffing shortages in its police, fire and public works departments.

“I think we’re in a really good position to serve our citizens. As far as public safety, it’s it’s probably our number one priority,” he said.

Residents can also expect to see improvements coming for substandard housing in older neighborhoods through grants from the State Department of Community Affairs.

Mayor Walker says he’s excited for the growth, and looks forward to celebrating the city’s future.

“It’s going to be a great year for the city of Perry,” he said. “We’re going to celebrate 200 years of greatness.”

Perry also has celebrations planned for each month this year in recognition of its Bicentennial. You can stay up to date on those events by visiting the city’s website.