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The City of Selma is ranked nationally among the top cities in the United States, according to a prominent magazine.

Site Selection magazine ranks Selma 40th among the top micropolitan cities in the U.S. for corporate expansion projects from 2023.

Selma and Dallas County Economic Development Authority (EDA) executive director Wayne Vardaman announced at a press conference Tuesday at the Selma and Dallas County  Chamber of Commerce.

“Economic development is a process, not an event,” Vardaman said. “The process begins at birth. One of our founding principles is to market Selma and Dallas County’s assets like our four industrial parks to attract new industry.”

Vardaman said Selma Mayor James Perkins Jr. Dallas County Probate Judge Jimmy Nunn, Aubrey Carter and James Mitchell, CEO of Wallace Community College-Selma, played big roles for the high ranking and working together.

“It’s the team approach, when you work together, together we work,” Vardaman said. “We had a fantastic year.”

Perkins said he appreciates Vardaman’s hard work and determination to bring industries to the area.

“The glass is not full, it’s not half full, it’s three-quarters full,” Perkins said. “It’s still a work in progress but things are happening in our community.”

Nunn credited Vardaman for always making a strong push to lure businesses into town.

“Being in The 40 means a lot,” Nunn said. “It’s an exciting time to be in Dallas County. The proof is in the pudding. It’s an economic boost in the community.”

James Patterson, Selma and Dallas County EDA Chairman said working together is the key to success by the EDA.

“Selma’s ranking is the result of a collaborative effort between the EDA and our partners on the local and state levels,” Patterson said. “I appreciate the efforts of the pair charman, Aubrey Carter, the entire EDA board, especially our EDA in Wayne Vardaman and project manager Kathy King.”

Carter said being a team player is stepping up and getting the job done. As chairman Carter enjoyed working with Vardaman, Corrigan, Perkins, and  Nunn.

Dan Lane, who filled in for Corrigan, said Craig Field shared a common goal with Vardaman, Nunn and Perkins.