Judges Notes - Empowerment Zones

 One of the important duties of my office that is not defined by KRS or Attorney General Opinion is community and economic development. I feel it is important to be active in searching and contacting potential businesses and employers to offer any kind of resource we can provide to make our community as appealing as we can to potential developers. When you sit down at a meeting or make a call to a point of contact to these potential businesses as the chief elected official sometimes it sparks more interest from these potential developers. It lets them know that you are serious about the interest of them locating to your area. 
One of the tools in our toolbelt for interested companies is the Empowerment Zone Tax Credits. Empowerment Zones are designated geographic areas characterized by high levels of unemployment and poverty. To incentivize hiring within these zones, businesses located within them can claim the EZEC, which offers a tax credit equal to 20% of the first $15,000 of wages paid to eligible employees who both live and work within the zone. Jackson County is one of the areas that is still able to obtain these credits. 
What are Empowerment Zone Employment Credit Qualifications 
Empowerment Zones span both urban and rural areas, aiming to stimulate economic growth and employment opportunities in distressed communities. These zones offer tax incentives and benefits to employers who hire qualified zone employees, defined as individuals who primarily work within the empowerment zone and reside there while performing their duties. However, certain individuals are excluded from qualifying as zone employees, including 5 percent owners of the employer, those employed for less than 90 days, and individuals working in specific industries like golf courses or gambling facilities. 
Why the Empowerment Zone Employment Credit Matters 
By participating in the EZEC program, businesses not only benefit from tax savings but also contribute to the economic development of designated empowerment zones. This initiative aims to empower local communities by providing employment opportunities and fostering economic growth. 
We will continue to work on developing our community by seeking potential employers. In order for a community to thrive, you have to believe it can, no matter what opinions of critics say. Nobody can wave a magic wand and change anything but time, effort and a positive attitude is a great way to start. 
Have a blessed week