Welcome to the Sumter County Development Authority

The Sumter County Development Authority was established in 1962, when local voters approved a constitutional amendment allowing the county to create a public development authority to support industry and job growth. The Georgia General Assembly followed with enabling legislation that formally organized the Americus–Sumter Payroll Development Authority, giving it the ability to develop sites, issue revenue bonds, and partner with employers.

Through the late 1960s and into the following decades, the Authority operated in the traditional Southern industrial‑recruitment model—chasing plants, payroll, and long‑term employers. Over time, as the local economy diversified and the language of “payroll development” felt narrower than the work actually being done, the organization’s identity shifted toward what you now see branded as the Sumter County Development Authority.

The adoption of Georgia’s 1983 Constitution ended the practice of local constitutional amendments, but Sumter County’s 1962 amendment was grandfathered in, preserving the Authority’s legal foundation and powers.

Today, the Sumter County Development Authority continues to lead the county’s economic development efforts by preparing industrial sites, supporting business expansion, and promoting investment that strengthens the local economy. Equipped with incentives for growth and over 100 acres of developable land, the Authority is readily available to partner with you in expanding your business. 

We invite you to visit the various pages of our website and explore the resources and unique opportunities awaiting you in Sumter County.

Appointed Sumter County citizens lead the Sumter County Development Authority. The Sumter County Board of Commissioners appoints two members, the city of Americus appoints two members, and both jointly appoint one member. Members serve five-year terms and are tasked with providing leadership, direction, and industry knowledge to create growth opportunities in Sumter County. An Executive Director staffs the Authority.