State of the Coast Economy Symposium

This morning, dozens of state officials, business owners, and Coast residents came together at the IP Casino in Biloxi for the second annual Coast Economy Symposium.

Mississippi has had its ups and downs when it comes to the economy. However, Economist Darrin Webb says despite some challenges over the years when it comes to growth, the state’s economic future is looking up. “We are relatively optimistic. We do think growth will continue. We think it will be a little slower next year than this year, but still positive. There is increased federal spending and that’s given us a boost. That’s expecting to end so you won’t have that stimulus going forward.”

One thing Webb says is contributing to the success of Mississippi’s economy is the legalization of sports betting. “I think the sports betting performed as we expected. It has drawn people in the casinos that maybe had not been in the casinos before so that’s helping. Going forward, you are going to see more states get on board with that so you are going to see increased competition, but it’s pulling people into the casino right now.”

The drive to bring the younger generation into the state is also ramping up and Ocean Springs Mayor Shea Dobson says he hopes this will help create a more diverse population and economy. “Millennials are looking for a really strong economy. They are looking for quality of life and they are looking for experiences. I think that is one thing we can take away from this that millennials are looking for things to do. They are looking for experiences and nice places to live. I think we can provide that.”