France meeting could be decisive for Oconee

Not often, if ever, has a transatlantic meeting had importance to Oconee County. But, in the next few weeks, a board meeting in Paris, France is likely to decide whether a much hoped for Michelin manufacturing facility will be a reality for Oconee County. Space for what is expected to be a tire distribution center is being reserved in the county’s Golden Corner Commerce Park at Fair Play. And since word of the possibility came out late last year anticipation has been running high in a part of Oconee County that has been overlooked for economic development. According to Richard Blackwell of the Oconee Economic Alliance, the Michelin governing board will review its 2014 year and project what’s ahead for the company in 2015. Blackwell says Oconee County is waiting patiently and eagerly for Michelin’s decision.