Cleburne County offers more than a scenic view—it offers a smart place to grow. Positioned at the peak of Alabama and home to Cheaha State Park, our county combines natural beauty with real-world opportunity. With a skilled workforce, nationally recognized schools, competitive business incentives, and a low cost of living, Cleburne County is the ideal environment for industry and innovation. Rooted in Southern values and driven by modern progress, we’re a place where business climbs higher—naturally.
Cleburne County is strategically situated along Interstate 20, positioned halfway between Birmingham and Atlanta. Its location places it at the heart of a vibrant and diverse region, surrounded by bustling metropolitan areas—from the densely populated neighborhoods of west Georgia to the nearby economic hubs of Calhoun County, Alabama. Within a short 15-minute drive, businesses have access to a skilled, ready workforce, making it an excellent choice for both commerce and growth.
Cleburne County boasts a robust network of highways facilitating efficient travel and commerce:
Cleburne County’s strategic location offers proximity to several major airports:
Explore prime development opportunities in Cleburne County, where available sites feature strategic access to major highways and rail, robust utility infrastructure, and proximity to a skilled workforce. These properties are ideal for businesses looking to grow in a supportive, business-friendly environment.
Cleburne County, Alabama is home to a highly capable, motivated, and adaptable workforce—ready to meet the needs of today’s industries and tomorrow’s innovations. Strategically located along major transportation corridors and within commuting distance of major metropolitan centers like Atlanta and Birmingham, our region offers access to a broad labor pool with strong work ethics and diverse skill sets.
Our workforce is rooted in a tradition of hard work and craftsmanship, supported by modern training programs, robust educational institutions, and regional partnerships that prepare workers for the demands of advanced manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, construction, information technology, and more.
Whether you’re expanding an existing operation or launching a new venture, Cleburne County provides a reliable labor force equipped with the skills, certifications, and commitment needed to drive your business forward.
Counties, municipalities, local industrial development boards or authorities, economic development councils or authorities, airport authorities, port authorities or public corporations or certain state agencies or departments (Grantees) may apply to the State Industrial Development Authority (SIDA) for industrial development grants. Grant funds provided to a Grantee to be used in the preparation of a Project Site may be utilized for (1) preparation of a means of access to the site; (2) provision for adequate drainage of the site to prevent the accumulation of excess natural waters thereon; (3) boundary and topographical surveying, clearing and grubbing, and excavating; (4) the reasonable rehabilitation of buildings and other structures; and (5) other work relative to site preparation deemed necessary or appropriate.
The Cleburne County Commission can apply for grants, loans, and other assistance programs available through federal, state, and local government sources. Additional programs are funded by private providers, such as local foundations. Assistance may be available from counties and municipalities to be used for site preparation, infrastructure projects, and project financing. Contact the staff for more information. Assistance and credit programs include:
Rate is 6.5%. Based on the net taxable income of business done in Alabama, businesses are permitted to deduct all of their federal taxes apportioned to Alabama.
The state sales and use tax rates are 1.5% for manufacturing machinery, 2% for automobiles and 4% for all others, while Chambers County sales and use tax rates are both currently 1.0%. City rates vary and current rate information can be found in the City and County Tax Rates Section of the ADOR website.
Based on a company’s net worth in Alabama and the company’s ability to pay, rate ranges from $.25 to $1.75 for each $1,000 of net worth in Alabama. Minimum tax is $100.
Alabama offers different types of statutory tax incentives to new and existing qualifying businesses. In addition to state level incentives, local level incentives may be available for qualifying companies. Contact the CCDA for more information on local incentives.
Cleburne County Economic Development Council is an advisory board established to guide and support the growth and prosperity of Cleburne County through thoughtful planning and collaboration. The council is tasked with developing a comprehensive economic development strategic plan, designed to attract investment, support local businesses, and foster job creation. In addition, the council serves in an advisory capacity to local elected officials, offering informed recommendations and insights on matters related to economic development initiatives, policies, and opportunities across the county. Current Council members include:
Emily Perez has proudly called Cleburne County home for over 35 years. She resides in the Muscadine community with her husband and their two young daughters. With 15 years of experience at Georgia Power Company, Emily has built a diverse career spanning roles in GIS, Energy Efficiency, Area Sales, and currently serves as a Key Account Manager. Her long-standing commitment to the community and her professional dedication reflect her passion for both people and progress.
Tim’s roots in Cleburne County are at least 4 generations deep. He is a graduate of Cleburne County High School (‘79) and Jacksonville State University (‘83). He also obtained his Masters of Public Administration degree from Georgia State University (‘87).
Tim began his career with the U S Government in 1983 and retired in 2009. Tim’s government career provided the opportunity to enjoy various roles of increasing responsibility and challenge. Subsequent to his retirement,
Tim transitioned to the private sector before retiring full time in 2020. Tim has returned home to Cleburne County where he enjoys his family, the outdoors, and the community he loves.
Diana Ledbetter serves as the Vice President of People & Culture at Southwire, bringing over 17 years of experience in driving organizational transformation, optimizing workforce management, and enhancing business operations. Her leadership has been instrumental in aligning people strategies with business goals to foster sustainable growth and innovation. Diana holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Sociology from the University of West Georgia, as well as an MBA from Auburn University. Beyond her corporate role, Diana is actively engaged in her local community. She serves on the personnel and long-range planning committees at her church and contributes musically as a keyboardist on the praise team. Most importantly, Diana is a proud mom to Graham (14) and Grady (10), and wife to Steven Ledbetter. She enjoys spending time outdoors, walking with a good audiobook, and staying on the move while supporting her boys in their many activities.
My name is Chris Lindley and I have lived in Cleburne County for 20 years. I have worked for Brightspeed (formerly CenturyLink) For the past 15 years where the first 11 years I spent as a Service Technician, the next 2 years I spent as a Construction Project Manager and the last 2 years I have served as a Joint Use Analyst responsible for AL,MS,GA,TN and SC. Outside of work I enjoy spending time in my shop woodworking, Laser engraving and doing CNC work. I also enjoy hunting and fishing and spending time with my family and friends, especially my handsome Grandson Drax!
I look forward to contributing my skills and expertise to help drive economic growth in our community, to develop partnerships and maintain the relationship to see projects through to the end to help create opportunities for our residents and improve the overall quality of life for Cleburne County
Joseph Hunt is the Executive Vice President and Compliance Officer at Farmers & Merchants Bank, where he has served since 2004. A native of Cleburne County, Joseph is a proud graduate of Cleburne County High School and the University of Alabama, Joseph brings decades of experience and dedication to his role in community banking. In addition to his professional responsibilities, he actively contributes to local civic life as a member of the City of Heflin Planning and Zoning Board and a founding officer of Tiger Booster Club. He is also a devoted member of Heflin Baptist Church. Joseph and his wife, Kristy, reside in Heflin with their daughter, Kelsey. He is a devoted husband and proud father, and considers his role within his family to be his most important and rewarding responsibility. Known for his integrity, steady leadership, and deep ties to the community, Joseph Hunt continues to serve both his profession and his hometown with commitment and care.
Tanya Maloney serves as the Economic Developer for Cleburne County, Alabama, where she leads initiatives aimed at generating long-term economic growth, job creation, and enhanced quality of life for the community. A graduate of the University of Georgia, Tanya began her career in Washington, D.C., working both on and off Capitol Hill in economic development and government relations before returning to her hometown to make a lasting impact locally.
One of her most rewarding projects has been the historic renovation of the original Cleburne County High School into Carillon Oaks, a high-quality assisted living facility. This initiative not only preserved a cherished community landmark but also created fifty meaningful jobs and a vital service for local families.
Outside of her professional life, Tanya is a dedicated wife to TJ and proud mother of three daughters. Her days are full of joyful chaos—filled with dance recitals, ball games, hair braiding, and the occasional sibling negotiation.
Company Name | Product(s) | Number of Employees |
|---|---|---|
Southwire | Wire, Cable | 350 |
Cleburne County School System | Education | 300 |
L.E. Bell Construction | General Construction | 250 |
Tree Brand Packaging | Wood Pallets | 120 |
Taylor Corp Construction | General Construction | 100 |
Cleburne County Commission | Government | 90 |
Rusken Packaging | Corrugated Packaging | 76 |
Love's Travel Stop | Retail | 65 |
WM Grocery | Retail / Corporate Headquarters | 51 |
Asimpa | General Construction | 50 |
