The Joint Development Authority (JDA) of Jasper, Morgan, Newton and Walton Counties welcomed its newest members at its Feb. 28 meeting.

Marcello Banes, chairman of the Newton County Board of Commissioners, and developer Jerry Silvio joined the authority Tuesday as Newton County’s representatives.

During the meeting, the authority heard an update from its Economic Development Team, as well as an update on the Shire Project. The authority also adopted a records retention policy. According to JDA attorney Andrea Gray, the policy does not vary from the State of Georgia’s records retention requirements.

Carl Pennamon, Chairman of the Jasper County Board of Commissioners, was elected Secretary for the authority. He replaces Denny Dobbs, of Newton County, in that role. Dobbs’ term on the JDA expired Dec. 31, 2016.