Cullman’s success in economic development has been widely recognized through the years, both on a state and national level.

Under the direction of Peggy Smith, who retires June 1, the Cullman Economic Development Agency, has led a tremendous era of bringing new industries and expansions of existing industries to the area.

The results include being recognized among the micropolitans in the United States, which includes cities of less than 50,000 population and measurable construction and job growth. The unemployment rate also remains among the lowest in the state for Cullman County.

Cullman is a more prosperous community – a better place to live – because of Smith’s passionate and untiring economic development work.

Now, it’s time for a changing of the guard.

As Smith will tell you, all of this successful growth attributes link back to a viable, expertly guided economic development team.

As Smith prepares to retire from her current position and move to the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce to guide the ambitious five-year plan, Converging for Success, Dale Greer is poised to step up and lead the city’s economic development team.

The Cullman City Council made the move official at its Monday’s meeting. Greer, a 24-year member of CEDA and assistant director, is widely recognized for his work in the city’s success and for his knowledge in workforce development on a statewide level.

With more than three decades of success to her credit, Smith is moving into a challenging role that aims to bring deeper, sustaining community development on several fronts, from education to entrepreneurship.

Her track record and commitment to the welfare of the local community are widely respected. Her arrival at the chamber to lead this project is an important step in making the plan successful.

The economic development team is left in capable hands with Greer.

His understanding and role in past successes are valuable in maintaining a strong economic presence for the area.

He also has clear vision of the challenges facing economic development on the local and state levels.

Smith deserves a great deal of respect for the service she has given to our area.

She has quietly and persistently worked to ensure through leadership and teamwork that Cullman has a strong economic foundation – thanks for a job well done.

Congratulations as well to Greer. He has long been a key, knowledgeable component in this success.

His leadership going forward will be welcome in this changing of Cullman’s economic development guard.