NEWS RELEASE - March 23, 2006

UPDATE ON S.E.E.D. ACTIVITIES

Sweetwater, Texas (March 23, 2006) – The Sweetwater Enterprise for Economic Development Corporation (S.E.E.D.) announces three major economic initiatives in progress for Sweetwater, Texas.

A real estate developer is considering Sweetwater for the construction of a new retail outlet mall. Given the available raw land and its proximity to Interstate 20, Sweetwater would be an ideal location for the new shopping/retail center. The real estate developer and an outside reputable construction firm would facilitate the construction. However, local labor and resources would be used to assist in construction and all jobs created by this project would benefit area residents. This project is in the very earliest stages of discussion and no timeline has been set for project completion.

Sweetwater is also being considered as the new home for a manufacturer. Interested persons are considering an already existing; vacant distribution center located within the city limits. This manufacturing company would create 20-25 new jobs for Sweetwater area residents.

An existing service provider is now using 3 separate facilities in Sweetwater and currently employs 175 to 185 area residents. Each facility is filled beyond capacity. They are looking for a new facility with approximately 16,000 to 18,000 square feet of space. A building this size would allow them to consolidate their needs to one area. S.E.E.D.’s main goal with this venture would be to ensure that all jobs stay in Sweetwater and to act as a liaison between all interested parties to allow for a relatively seamless transaction.

Located on US Interstate 20 between Abilene and Midland, Sweetwater lends itself as a prime location to serve as home for a company's strategic needs. The Sweetwater Enterprise for Economic Development Incorporated (S.E.E.D.) mission is to facilitate a transitional move to this forward-thinking area. S.E.E.D is prepared for the challenges of maintaining consistent economic growth, including the creation and retention of jobs in Sweetwater. As a 4A organization, S.E.E.D. is focused on providing businesses the best opportunity for the growth, thereby ensuring consistent economic growth for our area.