Albany City commissioners moved a step closer Tuesday to finalizing plans for a Job Investment Fund that will utilize one-third of the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia reimbursement credits being returned each month to the city's Water, Gas & Light Commission, a fund that local development officials say could be a "game-changer" in attracting jobs.

The commission, initially through its Long-Term Financial Planning Committee, will work with the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission to use the funds as incentive to draw business and industry to Albany and Dougherty County. EDC President Ted Clem, who has worked with city officials to develop the Job Investment Fund plan, told the commission Tuesday that funds would be used as financial enticement to businesses bringing -- or existing businesses adding -- at least 100 jobs or investing at least $10 million in the community.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for us because this money will impact start-up costs," Clem told the commission. "We've talked with more than 40 economic developers in the state, and they all say (the fund) could be a game-changer in attracting business."

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