(a) There is created the Covington County Industrial Development Authority. The authority is created for the purpose and has the responsibility of aiding and assisting current industries and coordinating efforts of all municipal and county agencies of Covington County, as well as aiding organizations in the development of new industries which shall provide job opportunities for the citizens of Covington County, Alabama.

(b)(l) The authority shall be governed by a board of directors consisting of seven members. Two of the members shall be appointed by the Chair of the Covington County Commission. Two of the members shall be appointed by the Mayor of the City of Andalusia. Two members shall be appointed by the Mayor of the City of Opp, and one member shall be appointed by the Mayor of the City of Florala. Subsequently, vacancies on the board shall be appointed by the same appointing authority who made the initial appointment.

(2) Within 30 days following September 26, 1985, the appointing authorities shall submit in writing the name and address of the members of the board of directors to the judge of probate and such appointments shall be filed and maintained in the office of the judge of probate. At the organizational meeting of the members of the board of directors of the authority, members shall elect from among themselves a president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer. Each shall serve for a period of one year or until a successor is elected to serve. Neither shall be bonded, except the treasurer, who shall obtain bond as an official. Terms of office for all members shall be for three years.

(3) Ex officio members of the board of directors shall consist of the Mayors of the Cities of Andalusia, Opp, and Florala; Chair of the Covington County Commission; and the members of the Covington County Legislative Delegation. Any additional ex officio members shall be governed by the bylaws. The ex officio members shall act in advisory capacity and shall not have the right to vote as members of the board of directors.

(c)(1) The authority shall have the power to employ a qualified executive director who shall have the responsibility of carrying forth policies and directives of the board of directors. The executive director shall serve at the pleasure of the board. The board of directors shall set the salary and shall provide necessary office space and clerical help.

(2) The authority shall have the power to solicit and receive contributions from other government entities, corporations, partnerships, or individuals. For this purpose, the authority shall also be known as the Covington Industrial Development Authority. The authority shall submit to audits by the Examiners of Public Accounts.