The largest private landowner east of the Mississippi River is the Langdale Company of Valdosta. Famous gunfighter and gambler Doc Holliday was born in Valdosta. The Industrial Authority is a joint organization that oversees industrial and economic development in Valdosta and Lowndes County. The Authority was formed by an amendment to the Georgia State Constitution in 1960. It is made up of a five-member board which includes two city appointees, two county appointees, and one joint appointee.
Members serve five-year terms.
The officers of the board are the Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and Secretary. The Valdosta-Lowndes County Industrial Authority has a wide range of powers from which to promote economic development in the city and the county. The Authority can buy and sell property. It can also provide assistance to incoming as well as existing businesses to foster economic growth. Until recently, the Industrial Authority was a part of the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce.