LAGRANGE, Ga. — A new Web site aimed at bringing together Troup County job seekers and local employers is now a reality.

The site, troupcountyworks.com, is the brainchild of the newly created Troup County Center for Strategic Planning. The center was created in August as a way to help curb the area’s high unemployment rate and plan for future growth while implementing goals identified in the county’s strategic plan. The county’s unemployment rate is just over 14 percent.

“We looked at what the greatest needs of the community are,” LaGrange Mayor Jeff Lukken said when the site was unveiled Tuesday. “How do we maximize the number of jobs coming to Troup County residents? This Web site will be a focal point.”

Lukken and other area officials gathered at the LaGrange-Troup County Chamber of Commerce’s early bird breakfast, where the site was officially launched.

Brandon Eley, interactive director for Kelsey Advertising & Design, which developed the site, gave a virtual tour to officials and area business representatives.

During his morning presentation Eley showed the audience that already 15 area businesses had registered with the site.

“Within a few seconds you can be registered for the site,” Eley said, noting employers just have to enter several fields of information.

He said once employers are registered they can post job openings, desired skills for potential employees and events on the site’s calendar.

In addition to finding job listings and community events, site users also have access to employment tips and a video on the site’s home page greeting them. Tips range from how to craft a resume to how to research a company in preparation for an interview.

Officials also noted those looking to find a job can also easily register, peruse openings and apply.

“Applying for a job is literally one click,” Eley said.

Officials hope job seekers of all kinds will visit the site to apply for jobs. The site is geared for all types of prospective employees from high school students to experienced workers.

Kay Durand, recently tapped as executive director of the Troup County Center for Strategic Planning, will be charged with managing the site and making sure area residents and businesses know what it has to offer.

Durand said she plans on doing public service announcements and meeting with area students to get the word out. She said she hopes the site eliminates barriers between job seekers and employers.

As of Tuesday afternoon five additional businesses had registered with the site.