Shore Business Leaders to Develop Master Plan for Economic Growth [AUDIO]

Southern Ocean County is known for its summer tourism industry, military bases and even nuclear power plant but area business leaders are hoping to expand the region's economic offerings.

For its 100th Anniversary, the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce is planning to lead the effort to design a regional master plan aimed at attracting new businesses.

"It's part of its 2020 Vision Plan, to create a more sustainable economy that will support independent businesses, nonprofit organizations, tourism, keep property values strong and focusing on expanding environmentally sound corporate, maybe some light industry and service sector growth," Destination Marketing & Communications Director for the Long Beach Island Region Lori Pepenella says.

As part of a two-year research plan that will begin next week, Pepenella says area business leaders and economic development experts from Southern Ocean County will be convening to identify industries that would be a good fit for the region, properties that can accommodate them and set up business friendly policies as well as amenities to attract them to the region.

"Our area really does have and incredible pool of workforce, we have a great system of support for businesses, we also have a lot of property. So there's a lot of potential here."

For more information call the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce at (609) 494-7211 or visit this website.