Hempstead County Economic Development Luncheon celebrates growth, lithium future, and community partnerships

HOPE – The 39th Annual Investor Luncheon of the Hempstead County Economic Development Corporation (HCEDC) brought together business leaders, educators, and community stakeholders at Hempstead Hall today, highlighting a year of progress and a promising future driven by innovation, education, and regional collaboration.

The event opened with a warm welcome from HCEDC President Anna Powell, who invited attendees to continue enjoying their lunch as the meeting was called to order by HCEDC Chairman Dr. W. Ladell Douglas. Vice Chairman Steve Lance led the invocation, followed by a stirring flag presentation by the Hempstead County Sheriff’s Department Honor Guard. Attendees remained standing for the Pledge of Allegiance before approving the 2024 minutes and financial report, which had been distributed via email.

A major highlight of the luncheon was “a fireside chat” with guest speakers Will and Valerie Smith of Standard Lithium. Introduced by Vice Chairman Lance, the Smiths shared insights into the upcoming Smackover Lithium plant, a joint venture with Equinor, set to break ground in nearby Lafayette County. The facility, just 21 miles from Hope, is expected to create 100–150 permanent jobs and employ 200–300 contractors during construction.

Will Smith emphasized the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility and community safety, proudly noting that the company has had “no safety incidents.” He shared inspiring stories of two employees who rose through the ranks—from janitorial roles to lab and leadership positions—thanks to the company’s focus on education and internal advancement.

Valerie Smith added that tours of the facility require only minimal safety gear, underscoring the plant’s clean and safe operations. She also emphasized the company’s commitment to hiring locally and investing in the surrounding communities.

Anna Powell spotlighted the county’s educational opportunities, including tuition-free educational programs for local students. She shared encouraging statistics about student participation and enthusiasm, reinforcing the importance of aligning workforce development with the needs of emerging industries, such as lithium extraction.

In a lighthearted moment, Powell invited the guests to view the Ford Lightning electric pickup truck on display outside Hempstead Hall—courtesy of Will Smith—and shared her husband’s initial skepticism about electric vehicles. “He’s coming around,” she joked, suggesting that many in the community may soon recognize the practicality and power of electric transportation.

Powell also welcomed new investors—MANPOWER, Bank OZK, and Sheba’s—and expressed gratitude to all HCEDC supporters. She emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in driving economic growth and improving the quality of life in Hempstead County.

The luncheon concluded with a heartfelt thank-you to Farmers Bank and Trust for sponsoring the event, and Sheba’s for catering the luncheon, underscoring the strong community ties that continue to support HCEDC’s mission.