The GTPDD began operation in 1970 and was officially recognized
in 1971 by executive order. It is governed by a Board
of Directors, and works in cooperation with a County
Advisory Committee from each of our seven counties. Those
1970 beginnings were humble, and the new concept of a PDD system
was unproven. As we approach the 21st century, we view with pride
the strides we have made in our district, and the success that the
PDD system has been.
With the passage of the Economic Development Act of 1965 and the
Appalachian Development Act of 1965, a new concept of assistance
to local governments began. This new concept gave rise to a statewide
system of planning and development districts in Mississippi. The
Golden Triangle Planning and Development District was formed for
the purpose of improving and expanding economic development and
civic improvement in our seven-county area.
The GTPDD was organized under the Appalachian Development Act of
1965 and began operation on July 1, 1970. The GTPDD was officially
recognized as a sub-state planning and development district on June
11, 1971, when Governor John Bell Williams signed Mississippi Executive
Order Number 81. Recognition was also given by the Economic Development
Administration. The Economic Development Authority (EDA) serves
as the cognizant agency for the district.
On July 8, 1972, the Golden Triangle PDD received its corporate
charter as a multi-county, multi-purpose, non-profit Economic Development
Corporation. This charter was revised on October 27, 1976. The major
purpose of the PDD is to provide a single system of planning, development,
and programming from a regional approach. Because of its multi-functional
capability, the PDD is used by many Federal
and State agencies as a delivery
organization for those programs.
