It has taken many partnerships in the community to make the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce a success, said chamber President Al Hodge.

“We’ve had economic development leaders from other states come in to Rome because they want to know what our secret sauce is,” Hodge said, referring to Rome and Floyd County’s ability to attract industry.

Hodge spoke at the Seven Hills Rotary Club on Tuesday during the club’s weekly meeting. He said the chamber, along with community leaders, has made valiant efforts to bring in industry and maintain the industry the county already has.

“It is important to take care of the ones who brought you to the dance,” he said.

Hodge also said the chamber has been influential in bringing in companies like Thermal Seal Duct Systems. The company, which is moving into the old Wada Metals building, makes duct systems for commercial food plants and plans to hire 30 people soon.

Hodge also mentioned a Development of Regional Impact report filed Monday by the county with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.

Hodge said the project, a 1.4 million-square-foot facility, will remain a mystery for a little longer.

“We’re excited, and we’re in the first steps, step one,” he said. “We’re not going to talk about it. We’re not going to talk about who that is.”

Hodge was very vague when answering questions from the audience about the project, saying the facility, known as “Project River” will be four times the size of Mount Berry Square mall and is highly competitive.

“We are protecting our community and the company,” he said. “Please understand and respect that fact.”