PASCAGOULA, MS (WLOX) -
Pascagoula is hoping several new businesses setting up shop around town will boost the local economy. Nearly a half dozen restaurants and stores have opened in the city this year, including one Wednesday. City leaders said they're looking forward to that boost because sale tax revenue numbers have taken a dip.
Corder's Creamery and Garden Bar officially opened its doors in Pascagoula Wednesday, and residents were excited.
"I am glad. They are really taking a chance and doing this," Laurie Miller said.
Lester Corder owns the place.
"It has been a life long dream of mine to open a restaurant," Corder said.
Corder said he knows the economy is a little rocky now, but he's optimistic the investment in his community will pay off.
"I think if you offer a product, present yourself well, people will come."
The business owner is just of one many taking a chance on Pascagoula.
"I think in the past month or two, we have at least five or six new restaurants, venues open up. Mom and pop shops, even a national chain," City Councilman Frank Corder said.
Hardee's is among the new businesses providing good food and more jobs for residents.
"We are also employing 70 people from Pascagoula, and we are bring business back to the community," said Manager Gwen Shoemaker.
Councilman Corder said that's good news to hear, especially since sales tax revenue is down seven percent.
"I see that turning around with these new investments, with the riverfront development, with the downtown revitalization."
City leaders said they're continuing to push tax breaks and special facade grants in hopes of getting more business owners to think Pascagoula first.
"If you are going to make an investment in Pascagoula, now is the time to make an investment," Councilman Corder said. "We have opportunities available."
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Corder's Creamery and Garden Bar is the newest business to call Pascagoula home.
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