Any such county establishing an economic development program under this act may utilize the funds herein authorized to conduct studies and prepare comprehensive plans for its future economic growth and development; to inventory the services, facilities and resources of the entire county; to promote, stimulate and encourage the growth and development of the agriculture, commerce and industry of the county as a whole, in order to achieve maximum utilization of its human, economic and natural resources and tourist attractions; to foster and promote industrial climate and payroll; to otherwise promote the general economic welfare and prosperity of the area; and to enter into a professional services contract to employ an executive director for the economic development program as provided for in Section 2 of this act.¹