Page 162 - South Mississippi Living - March, 2022

FINAL SAY
TISH
WILLIAMS
Executive Director, Hancock Chamber of Commerce
If the real estate market is any indication of where the Mississippi Gulf Coast’s economy is headed, then we are in for a period of exceptional growth! Hancock County’s market has exploded over the last three years. We are seeing more and more people relocating from New Orleans and Baton Rouge, and it is a healthy mix of people in different life stages. From young, single professionals to families and new retirees, people are seeking and finding their place in Bay St. Louis, Diamondhead, Waveland, and Kiln.
We often focus on the importance of spending our dollars locally because every dollar turns over multiple times. To take that a step further, it is vital for South Mississippi to recruit visitors and new residents to come and spend locally as well because it is a new stream of revenue for our economy.
New residents also shape the character and culture of our Coast, too. For readers outside of Hancock County, I would encourage you to come over for a visit. You would be amazed at how the landscape has changed throughout the area. With new residents come new businesses, improved parks and recreational facilities, new events and more! We are optimistic about where the momentum is going to lead us.
Speaking of new homes, the Hancock Chamber of Commerce is going to have a new home of its own very
soon! We will be partnering with the City of Bay St. Louis
to manage the 1905 City Hall building this Spring. The Chamber offices will be located on the second floor and we will manage the first floor with the intention of developing
it as a public use space that will support community events and small business development. The building is currently under renovation and is expected to be finished by April 2022. We will relocate once that process is complete. Thanks to the continued support of Hancock Whitney Bank who has provided a home for the Chamber for the past eight years. We could not be happier to know that the historic Main Street branch is now back as a full service bank.
Whether you’re looking for a new hangout, a place to relax or a permanent escape, I’m sure you’ll find it in Hancock County. Your next home is right here waiting!
162 | March 2022
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