AEDC recognizes Jess Laird, Maurice Cox

Representative Lance Gooden and Senator Robert Nichols present long-standing, outgoing board of director Maurice Cox and Board President Jess Laird with a Texas flag flown over the state Capitol in appreciation of six years of commitment and dedication to the Athens Economic Development Corporation at AEDC’s annual meeting September 29. (Courtesy photo)

Press release

Athens Economic Development Corporation recognized long-standing, outgoing Board President Jess Laird and director Maurice Cox for their service on the board at its annual meeting on September 29. Senator Robert Nichols and Representative Lance Gooden presented Laid and Cox with a Texas flag flown over the state Capitol.

“We’re here to recognize some of the members who are going off the board,” said Senator Nichols. “I have a certificate from the Senate of the State of Texas, along with a flag that was flown over the state Capitol, in appreciation of six years of commitment and dedication to the Athens Economic Development Corporation.” Representative Gooden expressed his appreciation from the Texas House of Representatives.

“This has been a very rewarding board. I’ve learned a lot about economic development and that it takes effort to make it happen,” said Laird. “It’s been an honor to serve on the board.” Cox thanked the board and said he’s enjoyed the past six years.

“I want to say thank you to Jess Laird and Maurice Cox for the years you’ve served,” said Athens Mayor Monte Montgomery. “This city is better because of your service. On behalf of the citizens and myself, thank you both very much.”

Laird and Cox served the maximum of three 2-year terms on the board. Laird served as director from 2011 to 2014 and as Board President from 2014 to 2017. Cox served as director from 2011-2014 and 2016-2017, and served as Vice-President from 2014-2016. Laird and Cox’s terms will expire the end of September.

AEDC welcomed new board of directors Randy Jones and Cliff Bomer, appointed by the Athens City Council in August to fill the vacancies of Laird and Cox. Jones is the chief financial officer for the Athens Independent School District and Bomer the senior vice president and west regional manager of Citizens National Bank. Jones and Bomer will assume their position on the board October 1.