What is Economic
Development?
Economic development can be defined as activities and programs aimed at improving
local, regional, state and national economies by:
• Attracting or creating investment to expand the tax base; and
• Increasing jobs, wages and personal incomes.
Vision
Create an inclusive community where businesses, individuals and governments
can reach their full potential and become positive contributors to Lenoir County's
growth, economic well being and quality of life.
Mission
Promote economic development in Lenoir County by establishing a diverse employment
base with challenging and rewarding jobs for future generations, and a tax base
that will support the enhancement of the community's foundation and quality of
life.
Lenoir County EDC Objectives
- Prepare Lenoir County and its municipalities to effectively compete for economic development projects.
- Market Lenoir County's strategic assets to potential economic development prospects & allies.
- Call on existing industry to build/maintain relationships & encourage retention & expansions in Lenoir County.
- Oversee the construction of Shell No. 3 (a 40,000 SF basic industrial building in the 70 West Industrial Park).
- Assist the Tourism Director as needed to oversee the construction of the new visitors center.
Lenoir County EDC Highlights FY 06-07
- Spatial Integrated System (SIS) located at the GTP creating 37 new jobs over three years.
- A. G. Machining located in the former Buehler building creating 29 new jobs over three years.
- Kinston Jetport--Allegiant Air began flights twice weekly to Orlando, Florida
- Launch of the new Economic Development website "your global connection"
- NC Department of Commerce replaced the William S. Lee Act with Article 3J designating Lenoir County as a Tier 1 community offering additional credits for new and expanding industry.
- Promoting Lenoir Committee of 100's "We're On The Way" a local marketing/image campaign designed for the purpose of helping local citizens improve our self-image and recognize the successes of Lenoir County.
- 16-page supplement in Retirement Lifestyles Magazine promoting Lenoir County
- Lenoir County featured in Metronc
Gourmet--Special Dining Experience in Kinston
Chef and the Farmer worth a Special Trip
- Lenoir County featured in Our State Magazine.
1. Bob Garner Eats Fish Stew in Eastern North Carolina.
2. Just Picking--Lenoir County 25 years in Eastern NC Bluegrass Association.
Lenoir County EDC Goals FY 07-08
• Recruit one or more manufacturing prospect for Lenoir County generating at least
$100 million in capital investment & 150 new jobs.
•Continue to work with the NC GTP to help locate new industry.
• Work with one or more local expanding companies encouraging them to expand in Lenoir County generating at least $20
million in capital investment & 150 new jobs.
Staff
D. Mark Pope, Executive Director
Nita B. Lee, Assistant Director
Cindy Johnson, Secretary
Lucy Marston, Tourism Director |
