Re-kindling the American Dream
It seems that over the past few years, the rest of the world has discovered Texas. With a wide range of foods, cultures, terrains, occupations, and well…space, Texas has inspired thousands of people to become new Texans over the last decade. In the process, many have found the attraction of the small-town rural lifestyle that is prevalent beyond the big cities of Texas. In places like Goldthwaite, where land is still affordable, people are still friendly, and the traffic is still light, there is a re-kindling of the American dream happening. Opportunities abound to start small businesses, work remotely, and live life at a slower pace. In these towns, sales tax revenues are up, local businesses are flourishing, and people are taking notice!
I Got Here as Fast as I Could
It’s something you hear from a lot of new Texans: “I wasn’t born here, but I got here as fast as I could.” This sentiment underlines the notion that many have that Texas offers something bigger, better, and more fulfilling than their former situation. Sure, the majority of people may come for the big cities, but many are moving away from the city and toward the country. Major reasons are quality of life, cost of living, safety, community, and family values. In towns like Goldthwaite, you can always find someone to lend a helping hand, the city is extremely pro-business and helps entrepreneurs jump through hurdles easily, unlike the challenges provided in bigger cities. In fact, The Economic Development Corporation in Goldthwaite offers programs, incentives, and support to new business owners.
Small Business is Good Business
More and more people are not only looking for a better quality of life but also want to be their own boss. It is not easy to start a business, but in Goldthwaite small businesses are great for the economy, and the community. Since 2014, sales tax revenue has increased by over 80%, thanks in large part to the Economic Development Corporation’s efforts to support small business growth. That growth has been supported by having high-speed internet available through local fiber internet company CTTC which allows our businesses to connect with customers and vendors around the globe. Just a few recent examples include:
Joyful Trading Company, which expanded its already successful business in Llano to Goldthwaite after hearing about the supportive nature of the city and the community. Their family-friendly store offers high-quality Texas and Western clothing and gifts for men, women, and children.
Another recent expansion is the addition of The Cabin, home of pecans.com, and retailer of all things pecans. The new larger retail store expands their offerings to include gifts and Texas-made products alongside an old-school soda jerk, ice cream shop, and fine cuts of meat.
A third example is Fisher Street Bar and Grill, which offers a fantastic menu, self-pouring beer taps, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
These businesses along with others like Bootleg Chicken, Southside Tavern, and more have contributed jobs, entertainment, and an upgrade in shopping and dining options to the region.
There’s Always Something to Do
While it may be true in some small towns that there is not much to do, that is not the case in Goldthwaite. Local events and activities like the annual BBQ and Goat Cookoff, Hunters Chili Luncheon, Christmas Parade, and local music festival are just a few of the fun activities, along with shows at the Goldthwaite Theatre, great events at Legacy Plaza, and open space to walk at the Mike McMahan City Park and Pool, and a brand new fitness center there are a wide variety of activities and interests, and there are always new after-work and weekend events at Southside Tavern. It’s a lively small-town life, and offers people from Goldthwaite and all over Mills County, a place to come together to work, to play, to celebrate, and to live in a way that is outside of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Put simply, in Goldthwaite life is good.
Find Out if Goldthwaite is Where You Belong
So if you are looking for a place to settle down away from the city, start a new business, expand your small business, or find a great place to raise your kids or retire, Goldthwaite just might be the place for you. To get more information about how to move to Goldthwaite or start a business in Goldthwaite, contact our City Manager Rob Lindsey at (325) 648-3186, or stop by our Visitor Center the next time you pass through town.
