This week the Covington Newton County Chamber of Commerce made a long- awaited hire.

Roger Harrison has been hired as the Chamber’s economic development leader.

He’s a Georgia native who has agreed to come back home from his current economic position with Hendry County in south Florida.

Harrison and his family have ties to the area: The family operated Covington Fence Company.

We commend the chamber for their long vetting process: It appears by Harrison’s resume that he is a great fit.

We particularly like the fact that he has experience in dealing with municipal airports.

We strongly feel that the future of Covington’s growth is going to be tied to the development of the local airport.

We welcome Harrison back to our community and look forward to working with him and the chamber in the economic growth of Newton County.