County is growing
Published 12:00 am Wednesday, March 21, 2001
Allen Blair
Lawrence County’s increased population during the time between the 1990 Census and 2000 Census spells good economic news to government leaders.
Wednesday, March 21, 2001
Lawrence County’s increased population during the time between the 1990 Census and 2000 Census spells good economic news to government leaders.
"We watch as people our age who move away," said Jason Stephens, who in his early 30s is one of the youngest county commissioners elected.
"But we have people moving in, too," he said.
Lawrence County’s population grew from 61,834 in 1990 to 62,319 in 2000, according to U.S. Census data. Although a small percentage gain, the county followed the trend in southern Ohio.
Highland and Vinton county grew most, at 15.4 percent and 14.4 percent respectively. Only two other counties grew less than Lawrence – Gallia and Meigs. Scioto County was the only county in southern Ohio to lose population, from 80,327 to 79,195.
For comparison, populations in the U.S. Census include:
– Athens County: 62,223 in 2000; 59,549 in 1990; 4.5 percent increase.
– Gallia County: 31,069 in 2000; 30,954 in 1990; 0.4 percent increase.
– Jackson County: 32,641 in 2000; 30,230 in 1990; 8.0 percent increase.
– Ohio: 11,353,140 in 2000; 10,847,115 in 1999; 4.7 percent increase.
The county is in good shape where it stands in population, Stephens said.
"We have a lot of residents we serve as a county, and it’s an economic indicator that people want to be where they can proposer and provide for families," he said. "And, it’s a lot more than just money – it’s good schools, good communities."
Still, the census increase is just one of several positive things the county can look forward to in its future, Stephens added.
"These power plants are a big deal," he said. "One power plant, even with (tax) abatements will contribute more to government entities than our current top 10 taxpayers combined."
And, they will serve as an attraction for other industries, which will again boost population, he said.