SR 300: Sims family; commend

Senate Resolution 300

By: Senators Anderson of the 43rd, Davenport of the 17th, Wicks of the 34th, Rhett of the 33rd, Harbison of the 15th and others

A RESOLUTION

Commending the Sims family for their lasting contributions to Newton County and beyond; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the Sims family has played an instrumental and historic role in the economic and social development of Newton County, Georgia; and

WHEREAS, the family's legacy began with Cary Sims, who leased approximately 110 acres of farmland in the late 1920s to provide for his family, and on February 27, 1947, he overcame significant barriers facing Black landowners by purchasing the land for $3,000 in cash, establishing a foundation for future generations; and

WHEREAS, Cary Sims' youngest son, Eddie Roy Sims, born on the family farm in 1932, served honorably in the United States Army after being drafted at the age of 19, courageously representing his country during the Korean War before returning home to build a career in logistics, construction, and automotive work; and

WHEREAS, in the 1960s, amid the Civil Rights Movement, Eddie Roy Sims defied societal expectations by launching his own landscaping business that later expanded into grading, land clearing, and road construction, ultimately evolving into Sims Grading, a highly regarded company in the region; and

WHEREAS, his wife, Mildred Sims, a pioneering entrepreneur, founded a successful janitorial business in the 1970s and managed it for over 35 years while also contributing to farming and community support; and

WHEREAS, Eddie Roy and Mildred Sims were dedicated to mentoring Black entrepreneurs, providing guidance on financial literacy, business development, and self-reliance; offering financial assistance to aspiring business owners; and supporting local organizations such as the Newton County Senior Center; and

WHEREAS, their son, Lanier Sims, has continued the family's legacy, taking over Sims Excavating Inc. in 1996 and growing it into a leader in mass excavation, overseeing projects spanning more than 100 acres across metro Atlanta; and

WHEREAS, Lanier Sims has further extended his family's legacy into public service, serving as a Newton County Commissioner from 2011 to 2018, focusing on infrastructure, economic development, and improving the quality of life for residents; and

WHEREAS, in addition to his elected service, he has held leadership positions as Chairman of the Newton County Industrial Development Authority, Chairman of the Newton Chamber of Commerce, and a board member of the Newton Hospital Authority; and

WHEREAS, his advocacy has played a direct role in bringing over 15,000 jobs to Newton County and fostering sustainable economic development; and

WHEREAS, committed to philanthropy and mentorship, Lanier Sims served a vital role in the creation of the Newton County Miracle League, ensuring that children with disabilities have access to inclusive sports opportunities, and he continues to mentor aspiring entrepreneurs and future community leaders; and

WHEREAS, the Sims family exemplifies the values of perseverance, entrepreneurship, and service, having overcome historical challenges to build successful businesses, create jobs, and uplift their community for generations; and

WHEREAS, in recognition of Black History Month, it is fitting and proper to honor the Sims family for their profound contributions to Newton County and beyond.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body commend the Sims family for their remarkable impact on Newton County, celebrate their contributions to economic development and community service, and recognize their enduring legacy of leadership and perseverance.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the Sims family.