09-23-2025 Meeting Agenda Packet EDC
Date: September 23, 2025
Time: 4:00 pm
Location: EDC Boardroom, 303 S. Morgan St., Roxboro, NC 27573
Regularly-Scheduled Meeting Agenda
Time Item Leader 4:00 Welcome Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman 4:01 Invocation Mr. G. Phillip Allen, Vice-Chairman
4:02 Consent Agenda Approval of the Minutes for August 26, 2025 Calendar Amendments **Request a motion to approve the consent Agenda as presented. Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman
4:05 Spuntech Celebration Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman 4:10 Opportunity Zones The Honorable Sherry Wilborn 4:30 Leadership Summit Planning Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman 4:35 Chairman Report Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman 4:40 Member Comments Members and Ex Officios 4:45 Director Report Ms. Brandy Lynch, ED Director 4:50 Next Meeting
Set for October 16, 2025, 3:30 pm, EDC Boardroom,
303 S. Morgan St., Roxboro, NC 27573 Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman 4:50 **Adjourn Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman **Action Requested
Executive Board Meeting
Leadership Summit
««Notice: For Emergency and/or Special Called Meetings of the EDC, please check
the EDC Meeting Materials section of the EDC website.»»
Upcoming 2025 Meeting Dates for the
Person County Economic Development Commission
Date: Time: Location:
January 28, 2025 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
February 25, 2025 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
March 25, 2025 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
April 22, 2025 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
May 27, 2025 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
June 24, 2025 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
July 22, 2025 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
August 26, 2025 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
September 23, 2025 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
October 16, 2025 Additional 3:30 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building
October 28, 2025 Rescheduled 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
October 30, 2025 5:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m. Person County Auditorium Building
November 18, 2025 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building***
December 2025* TBD TBD
*The EDC meets on 4th Tuesdays of every month. Because the 4th Tuesday of December 2025
falls on the week of a major holiday, the Commission will determine at its November meeting whether to hold a
December meeting.
**Person County Transit & Development Center is located at 303 S. Morgan St. Roxboro, NC 27573
*** The November meeting will be on the 3rd Tuesday.
For more information, please contact the ED Office at 336.597.1752.
Minutes of the PCEDC Regularly Scheduled Meeting
Person County EDC Board Room
303 S. Morgan St., Roxboro, NC 27573
August 26, 2025
Voting Board Members Present:
Dr. Scott McKinney- Chairman Mr. Jody Blackwell
Mr. Phillip Allen- Vice-Chairman Mr. Kenneth Perry
Dr. Claudia Berryhill, Agricultural Representative, Mr. Jay Poindexter
The Honorable Merilyn Newell The Honorable Sherry Wilborn
Ex Officios Present:
Ms. Katherine Cathey, County Manager
Mr. Brooks Lockhart, City Manager
Dr. Kevin Lee, PCC President
Ex Officios Absent:
Dr. Rodney Peterson, PCS Superintendent
ED Staff Present: Others Present:
Ms. Brandy Lynch, Director Ms. Julie Maybee
Ms. Briana Whitt, Specialist (Minutes) Mr. George Willoughby
Ms. Dana Blackwell
Ms. Kim Strickland
Mr. Bo Freeman
Ms. Diara Townes
EDC Welcome and Invocation:
At 4:00 p.m., Chairman McKinney called the meeting to order.
Dr. McKinney allowed the new PCC President, Dr. Kevin Lee, time to introduce himself to the
board.
The Honorable Merilyn Newell gave the invocation.
Ms. Lynch requested to admin the agenda and move the Closed Session to the end of today's
agenda.
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Approval of Minutes
Chairman McKinney recognized The Honorable Merilyn Newell for the approval of the July 22,
2025, meeting minutes.
A motion was made and seconded and unanimously passed for approval of the for July 22, 2025
Meeting Minutes.
Motion: Mr. Phillip Allen Second: Mr. Jody Blackwell
Organization Changes:
Ms. Cathey provided a brief overview of the organizational changes. She presented the updated
work chart for the county, highlighting that Economic Development remains a county
department. It is now represented in blue on the chart, indicating the Economic Development
Commission's (EDC) role in overseeing the department.
To formalize the relationship between the EDC and the Economic Development Department, the
bylaws were updated. Specifically, Section 8, Article 3 has been revised to change the language
from recommending the employment of the Economic Development Director to designating the
EDC as the appointed hiring and firing authority for the Director of Economic Development.
Other EDC staff will continue to report to the Economic Development Director. Employees in this
department will still be subject to the Person County personnel policy.
Ms. Lynch reports to the EDC's Executive Committee, which includes the chairman, vice
chairman, secretary, and the chairman's appointee from the Person County Board of
Commissioners, currently Commissioner Wilborn. In addition, all members of the Economic
Development Commission will now be required to sign an honor and confidentiality agreement
incorporated into the bylaws.
The bylaws can be amended in the future by the Board of Commissioners. If the Economic
Development Commission wishes to recommend changes, these proposals may be submitted
for consideration by the Board of Commissioners.
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Opportunity Zones:
Commissioner Wilborn explained that opportunity zones were first introduced in 2017 when
President Trump launched the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. He shared two maps with Ms. Whitt, who
displayed them during her presentation for comparison. It's estimated that $160 billion in equity
has been invested into opportunity zones. To date, tens of thousands of jobs have been created,
along with over 300,000 new housing units in these zones.
Former Director Gilbert ensured the mega site was included, although we were limited in the
number of zones we could designate. The initial stipulation allowed contiguous areas to qualify,
even if they didn’t meet individual census tract requirements. In summary, all areas above 158,
excluding those within city limits, are our designated opportunity zones.
The new designation period is scheduled to start in July of next year. This means that anyone
who wants to establish a designation in their community must submit that information to the
governor before July 1, 2026. The criteria for eligibility have changed this time around,
particularly regarding the definition of low income. As a result, there will be fewer available
tracks that qualify, making the process more competitive.
The three areas that may be eligible, were displayed in the greenish color on the bottom map. If
we are only able to focus on one, we need to determine which one is the best choice.
Fortunately, there will be a two-year period of overlap; the current map will remain effective
until the end of 2028 when the new one takes effect. During this two-year transition, the old
map will still be in place.
Commissioner Wilborn has discussed with Sally the possibility of overlaying this new map onto
the tool she previously built for the Economic Development Commission (EDC). This will enable
us to analyze which resources and infrastructure are linked to each area, as well as identifying
any viable buildings or residential development projects. We will then need to evaluate where
we believe the most promising investment opportunities are for both the city and the county,
considering the types of growth we are aiming for.
There are additional changes to be discussed later.
Golden Leaf Grant:
The board members have been provided with a printed handout detailing the Community-
Based Grants Initiative (CBGI) County Manager Project Endorsement Sheet. The Board of
Commissioners approved a process for the county to start soliciting projects for the CBGI
initiative, which began in June. The Economic Development Commission (EDC) was invited to
provide any input regarding potential project proposals.
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We received three project proposals, which are included in the handout. Ms. Cathey reviewed
the proposals. The submissions were due by July 21 and were submitted to Ms. Lynch, who then
forwarded them to Golden Leaf.
Ms. Lynch and Ms. Cathey met with the Golden Leaf staff to discuss their feedback on the
completed worksheets for each project. They asked us various questions, and Ms. Lynch relayed
those questions and the feedback to each project team. A follow-up meeting with PCC to review
their proposal in greater detail.
The next step in the process is to obtain feedback from EDC on the submitted projects to give to
the Person County Board of Commissioners at the September 2nd meeting the commissioners
will endorse a list of projects to be submitted to Golden Leaf, in accordance with the timeline for
this process. The final submissions to Golden Leaf are due by noon on September 4, so we will
need to finalize that list on Monday.
The commissioners will then decide which projects to submit; the county can propose up to four
projects to Golden Leaf for their consideration. However, the total funding for these four
projects cannot exceed $2 million.
Golden Leaf will fund a maximum of three projects for a total of $1.5 million in Person County,
though there is a possibility that they may decide not to fund any projects in the county.
The three projects include:
1. **Piedmont Community College, South Campus**: This project involves relocating and
expanding HVAC, electrical, and plumbing programs to meet workforce demands and
modernize the curriculum. The total funding requested for this relocation and expansion is
$1,010,835.80.
2. **Family Medical Center**: A proposal has been submitted to expand the Family Medical
Center. This expansion will involve adding new rooms, integrating dental services into the
facility, expanding behavioral health services, creating administrative offices and a telehealth
suite, and upgrading care coordination areas and waiting areas. Additionally, there will be
improvements to the IT infrastructure.
3. **New General Aviation Terminal**: Ms. Lynch has prepared a submittal for the new general
aviation terminal, which is currently in the design phase at the airport.
Ms. Cathey stated that the initial worksheets submitted to us will require significant reworking
based on the feedback received from Golden Leaf. After the Commissioners endorse project/s,
Golden Leaf will schedule meetings with the selected projects to provide direct feedback and
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answer their questions. After these meetings, Golden Leaf will open their application portal, and
the projects will be responsible for submitting detailed information for consideration by the
Golden Leaf board.
Mr. Blackwell mentioned that while they were working on the proposal for Golden Leaf, Zachary
announced plans to build the Duke plant. They have reached out to us, and we have met with
them to discuss their background and plans. The Duke plant will create 1,000 jobs in our local
area, so this need is approaching faster than we realize. The project is expected to start in the
first quarter of 2026.
The motion proposes that the EDC board recommend to the commissioners to proceed with
endorsing two projects: PCC as the priority for one and a half million dollars, and Person Family
Medical for half a million dollars. All were in favor of this motion.
Chairman's Report:
Dr. McKinney highlighted a significant change in the executive committee, which will now have
four members instead of three. This change requires us to follow new rules for meetings,
publicity, and documentation. Expect an announcement about our first official meeting in the
coming weeks, as this change brings increased responsibilities.
Dr. McKinney recognized Commissioner Wilborn, who has connected us with a certified
Economic Development facilitator from Elkin. We are interested in having her lead our
leadership summit on October 30, and she is eager to meet with the executive committee to
plan based on our preliminary agenda. The cost would be $9,600.00 plus mileage.
In addition to facilitating the retreat, which aims for a joint meeting with city council members
and county commissioners, she will conduct economic research and analyze the workforce,
building on the current consulting work happening in the city and for the entire county.
At this point, Dr. McKinney would like to draw your attention to a request for permission to
collaborate with PCBIC. They have secured some sponsorship funds that the Carolina Core has
volunteered to donate for this initiative. Dr. McKinney will also propose that PCBIC contribute a
portion of the expenses. PCBIC is prepared to cover the total anticipated costs, suggesting that
any remaining balance could be appropriately covered by the catalyst fund, rather than the EDC
budget. Dr. McKinney believes that the total will likely not exceed the planned budget range.
A motion was made, seconded, and unanimously passed to approve funding of up to $10,000 to
hire Crystal Morphis as a facilitator for the Leadership Summit.
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Motion: Mr. Jay Poindexter Second: Mr. Jody Blackwell
Member Comments:
Mr. Allen wants to show our appreciation to Dr. McKinney, Ms. Lynch, Ms. Cathey, and
Commissioner Wilborn for their hard work during the reorganization.
Commissioner Wilborn announced that the Department of Transportation (DOT) is now
accepting public comments from July 28 to August 29. They are interested in hearing about the
projects people would like to see included in the transportation plan for 2028 to 2037. Public
feedback is encouraged through an online portal. After the meeting, she will send out a link to
that portal.
Dr. Berryhill announced that a brand-new wayfinding project for tourists has been launched in a
project five years in the making. Over the next 18 months, the city and county will install several
kiosks around town. I want to give credit to Julie, who has worked tirelessly on this project. It
has been a very tedious endeavor.
Dr. Lee announced that the college began its fall semester a couple of weeks ago, and
enrollment has increased again. PCC does not have final numbers yet due to pending financial
aid calculations and non-payments, we are optimistic about strong enrollment, currently
showing a double-digit increase.
The College Foundation Golf Classic is set for September 16, and spots are filling up. Please
reach out if you need more information.
Dr. Lee emphasized the importance of impact at the South Campus. We are forming a task force
with key college members to ensure we have a clear path and direction.
Additionally, PCC has joined the Carolina Cyber Network and was designated as a National
Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense. We also received funding to enhance a
computer lab, which will strengthen our technology infrastructure.
Mr. Lockhart stated that the City of Roxboro is currently conducting hydrant flow tests to ensure
we can effectively respond to fires. Additionally, blasting is underway for the Western Sewer
Project. Rock contingency may reach about 30%, up from the budgeted 20%, but this is still
within our project parameters. Lastly, Lockhart shared there would be candidate forums, and
more information will be shared soon.
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Mr. Perry stated that North Carolina ranks third in the nation for black-owned businesses,
behind Georgia and Delaware. Notably, 15% of all companies in the state are black-owned,
which is positive for minority entrepreneurship.
Ms. Newell announced that the city council is simplifying the sign ordinance, currently 30 pages
long, to help the public understand their signage options. They are also reviewing special use
permits to assist local stakeholders and event organizers, and plan to form a committee to
streamline this process.
Director Report:
Ms. Lynch stated that the board has a business retention and expansion survey created by Mr.
Eatmon after discussions with several members. Please review it and share any comments with
him. This document is not yet public, as we are still planning.
Ms. Lynch received an email from Louisiana Pacific about their Manufacturing and Family Day in
October 2025. They are seeking raffle item donations for employees. While county
representatives cannot participate directly, she encourages local business owners to consider
donating.
Ms. Lynch attended a round table with Congressman Brad Knott, who was welcoming and
discussed various topics that were discussed. Ms. Lynch also met with Senator Ted Budd’s office
and visited the Raleigh Regional Airport to address the new terminal's potential economic
impact and funding opportunities.
Ms. Lynch recently spoke with the USDA, which was very helpful. Ms. Lynch will meet with them
again to discuss funding and opportunity zones.
Discussion of the final road closure plans with Microsoft and the North Carolina Department of
Transportation. DOT provided requirements, but Microsoft’s drawing did not meet all of them.
Microsoft will revise their plans and resubmit to NCDOT.
Ms. Lynch invites everyone to a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Person Industries on September 5th
at 10:00 AM. The Civics Academy resumes on September 4th, and a Job Fair and Resource Expo
takes place on September 10th at PCC South Campus. RTRP will host the "Invest in the Research
Triangle Regional Summit" on September 16th.
Upcoming events include Business After Hours on September 18th and a Good Morning Coffee
Hour focused on personal development. The Karr-Tar Summit will be held on October 9th.
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Closed Session:
Chairman McKinney requested a motion to enter into Closed Session pursuant to NC General
Statutes 143-318.11(a)(4)
A motion was made, seconded and unanimously passed to go into closed session.
Motion: Mr. Phillip Allen Second: The Honorable Merilyn Newell
Closed Session was entered into at 5:42 pm.
A motion was made, seconded, and unanimously passed to come out of closed session.
Motion: The Honorable Merilyn Newell Second: Mr. Phillip Allen
Closed Session was exited at 5:49 pm.
Next Meeting:
The next meeting is announced for Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. in the Person
County EDC Board Room, 303 S. Morgan St., Roxboro, NC.
Adjournment:
A motion was made, seconded, and unanimously passed to adjourn the meeting at
approximately 5:49 p.m.
Motion: Mr. Jay Poindexter Second: Mr. Phillip Allen
_____________________________________ ______________________________________
Date Approved Secretary
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Date: August 26, 2025
Time: 4:00 pm
Location: EDC Boardroom, 303 S. Morgan St., Roxboro, NC 27573
Regularly-Scheduled Meeting Agenda
Time Item Leader 4:00 Welcome Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman 4:01 Invocation Mr. G. Phillip Allen, Vice-Chairman 4:02 Approval of the Minutes **Request a motion to approve the July 22, 2025 Meeting Minutes Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman 4:05 Organization Changes Ms. Katherine Cathey, County Manager 4:15 Opportunity Zones The Honorable Sherry Wilborn 4:25 Golden Leaf Grant Ms. Katherine Cathey, County Manager
4:35 Closed Session **Request motion to enter into Closed Session pursuant to NC General Statutes 143-318.11(a)(4) Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman
4:40 Chairman Report Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman 4:45 Member Comments Members and Ex Officios 4:50 Director Report Ms. Brandy Lynch, ED Director 4:55 Next Meeting
Set for September 23, 2025, 4:00 pm, EDC Boardroom,
303 S. Morgan St., Roxboro, NC 27573 Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman 4:55 **Adjourn Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman **Action Requested
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Person County
Highlights from the 2024 NCACC County Map Book
Demographics
Economy and Taxes
County Population
Median Age
Average Weekly Wage
Population Under 18
Per Capita Income
Gross Domestic
Product (GDP)
Population 65+
Children in Poverty
Veteran Population
Property Tax Levy
Per Capita
Taxable Property
Valuation Per Capita
Value Deferred Under
Present Use Valuation
Sales Tax Rate
(State + Local)
Property Tax Rate,
FY 2024–25
Population Change Since 2014
Population Facts
Economics
Taxation
County
County
County
43.1
$926
20%
$45,304
$1.5B
22%
20%
5.5%
$1,001
$138,546
$341M
6.75%
0.7225¢
NC
NC
NC
39.9
$1,262
21%
$58,109
$609B
18%
17%
6.1%
$902
$156,028
$38.0B
---
---
Rank*
Rank*
Rank*
45
36
45
72
60
44
43
69
23
46
39
---
70
39,272
+1.6%$2,247
42%
16%
12%
69
10
88,571 364
8%
in total K-12 current expense funding,
as self reported by the county
of adults aged 25-44 hold a secondary degree or
high-quality credential.
of residents
experience
food insecurity.
deaths due to
overdose
of residents
under age 65
are uninsured.
emergency
department
visits for drug
overdose
acres of agricultural
land – The US
Department of
Agriculture defines
“agricultural land”
as traditional farms,
ranches, timber
production,
aquaculture, and
similar activities.
of adults aged 25–44 have less than
a high school diploma.
78%
85%
of households have
at least one device to
access the internet.
of households have
a broadband internet
subscription.
Pre-pandemic broadband data (2019) is
available in the full version of the
County Map Book.
These data points are excerpted from the 2024
NCACC County Map Book and represent the most
recent year available.
*Additional county-level data, notes, a source
list and explanations about how each indicator
is ranked are online at www.ncacc.org/mapbook
or via the QR code. The digital PDF can be
downloaded or you can email communications@
ncacc.org to request a free spiral-bound book.
farms in the county –
The US Department of
Agriculture defines a
“farm” as any plot of
land that produced
and sold at
least $1,000
of agricutural
products
during the
2022 Ag.
census.10 of 27
VALUE OF VEGETABLE,
MELON & POTATO
11
FRUIT, NUT &
BERRY FARMS
VALUE OF SOD, GREENHOUSE,
NURSERY, FLORICULTURE
PRODUCTS
N.C. Cooperative Extension prohibits discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation and veteran status.
NC State and N.C. A&T State universities, U.S. Department of Agriculture and local governments cooperating. This material was produced with funding from the NC Cooperative Extension Local Food Program.
TOTAL AG PRODUCTS SOLD
24
VEGETABLE,
MELON, & POTATO
FARMS
SOD, GREENHOUSE,
NURSERY, FLORICULTURE
FARMS
VALUE OF ANIMAL
PRODUCTS
364NUMBER OF FARMS
FARMLAND
COMPONENTS
OTHER
WOODLAND
PASTURELAND
CROPLAND
194
TOTAL CROP FARMS,
INCLUDING NURSERY
& GREENHOUSE
VALUE OF CROP
INCLUDING NURSERY
& GREENHOUSE
243
AGRITOURISM
REVENUE
ACRES AVERAGE
SIZE OF FARM
MALE
PRODUCERS
FEMALE
PRODUCERS
PRODUCERS WITH
MILITARY SERVICE
PRODUCER
AVERAGE AGE
NEW & BEGINNING FARMERS
ACRES OF FARMLAND
88,571
79
GRAIN, OILSEED, BEAN,
PEA FARMS
$12,786,000
VALUE OF GRAIN, OILSEED,
BEAN, PEA PRODUCTS
%
14
$46,525,000
VALUE OF FRUIT,
NUT & BERRY
52 FARMS THAT SELL
DIRECT TO CONSUMER
65199204415
$630,000
DIRECT TO
CONSUMER SALES
9
FARMS WITH
INTERMEDIATED SALES
58.5
175
ANIMAL
FARMS
DOWN11%
FROM
2017
UP7%
FROM
2017
DOWN7%
FROM
2017
UP7%
FROM
2017
UP18%
FROM
2017UP16%
FROM
2017
VALUE OF DELIVERED TIMBER
$9,020,032
LOCAL FARMS AND FOOD PROFILE
DATA FROM 2017 & 2022 USDA AG CENSUS
FOR MORE INFO GO.NCSU.EDU/AGCENSUS
Person County
DOWN5%
FROM
2017
Sponsored by
UP39%
FROM
2017
DOWN2%
FROM
2017
AGRITOURISM
FARMS 2
VALUE OF INTERMEDIATED
SALES
60%16%
4%
20%
UP15%
FROM
2017
$1,463,000
DOWN47%
FROM
2017
$511,000
DOWN10%
FROM
2017
INSUFFICIENT DATA
DOWN44%
FROM
2017
UP6%
FROM
2017
DOWN15%
FROM
2017
DOWN25%
FROM
2017
UP8%
FROM
2017
UP99%
FROM
2017
DOWN69%
FROM
2017
UP255%
FROM
2017
NCDA VALUE
INSUFFICIENT DATAINSUFFICIENT DATA
UP135%
FROM
2017
NCDA VALUE
NO
CHANGE
FROM
2017
NC FarmLink NC State Extension Local Food Program Center for Environmental Farming Systems(CEFS)
Timber data obtained from https://forestry.ces.ncsu.edu/county-income-and-economic-data/ and is not included in Total Ag Products Sold.
$3,644,000
$40,157,000
11 of 27
N.C. Cooperative Extension prohibits discrimination and harassment regardless of age, color, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, national origin, political beliefs, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation and veteran status.
NC State and N.C. A&T State universities, U.S. Department of Agriculture and local governments cooperating. This material was produced with funding from the NC Cooperative Extension Local Food Program.
Sponsored by
NC FarmLink NC State Extension Local Food Program Center for Environmental Farming Systems(CEFS)
North Carolina's agricultural industry, including food,
fiber, and forestry, contributes $111.1 billion to the
state's economy, accounts for more than 16 percent
of the state's income, and employs 16 percent of the
workforce.¹ North Carolina is one of the most diversified
agricultural states in the nation.
The state's 42,817 farmers grow over 80 different
commodities, utilizing 8.1 million of the state's 31 million
acres to furnish consumers with a dependable and
affordable supply of food and fiber. Net cash income
per farm in the state is $147,411.²
The state ranks eighth nationally in the Total Market
Value of Agricultural Products sold.³ While NC has a
strong and diverse agriculture, development pressures
have led to high rates of farmland loss, with 25 Counties
losing 15% of their farmland between 2017 and 2022.
One projection shows North Carolina losing over 10%
of total farmland between 2016 and 2040.4
This Local Farms and Food infographic is designed
for farm advocates, educators, economic developers,
planners, local food supporters, and community
members to understand the impact of agriculture in
their county and region on the overall economy of NC.
The financial indicators provided can help local and
state government agencies design ways to support
agricultural businesses as critical components of vibrant
and resilient local and rural economies. Each region in
North Carolina presents a unique set of opportunities
for sustainable economic growth and entrepreneurship.
Consider one example:
When school systems purchase food grown on local
farms, students benefit from access to healthy fresh
produce, farmers benefit from sales into local schools,
and the community benefits because these local
sales are spent at other local businesses. This local
business opportunity for farmers or food aggregators
(intermediated sales) keeps farms in production,
maintaining North Carolina’s agricultural asset base
regarding land and farming know-how. It also helps
to mitigate the loss of farmland to urbanization,
which is happening at the fastest rate in the nation.4
As decision-makers consider policies, programs,
and practices to support the agricultural sector, there
are numerous examples and supporting reports that
provide data and guidance for local planning efforts:
NCSU / Center for Environmental Farming Systems / NC State Extension Local Food
Local Government Guide to Developing Local Food Economies
https://cefs.ncsu.edu/food-system-initiatives/local-food-economies/local-government-guide-to-food-economies/
NC State Extension Local Food Program
https://localfood.ces.ncsu.edu; Publication: Clarifying Current Research on Local Food Systems
USDA The Economics of Local Food Systems
A Toolkit to Guide Community Discussions, Assessments, and Choices
https://www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/Toolkit%20Designed%20FINAL%203-22-16.pdf
For up-to-date information on this project, go to
https://localfood.ces.ncsu.edu/local-food-agriculture-policy/
local-food-economic-development/county-agriculture-profiles/
National Local Food Economics Food and Agriculture Data Explorer
https://localfoodeconomics.com/data/food-and-agriculture-data-explorer/
TriCog Regional Food System Planning Project
https://tri-cog-feeds-ucpcog.hub.arcgis.com/
The NC 10% Campaign Initiative
https://www.nc10percent.com/
North Carolina Local Food Council
https://www.nclocalfoodcouncil.org/
¹ https://cals.ncsu.edu/agricultural-and-resource-economics/wp-content/uploads/sites/46/2017/07/AgricultureAgribusinessReport-2023-digital.pdf
² https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2022/Full_Report/Volume_1,_Chapter_2_US_State_Level/st99_2_001_001.pdf
³ https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2022/Online_Resources/County_Profiles/North_Carolina/cp99037.pdf
4 https://farmlandinfo.org/publications/farms-under-threat-2040/
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Person County Business Retention
and Expansion Survey
Purpose:
This confidential survey aims to better understand the needs, challenges, and opportunities of
businesses in Person County. Your feedback will help guide local strategies for economic
development, workforce improvement, infrastructure, and support services.
For questions regarding this survey, please contact Bryan Eatmon with Person County Economic
Development at beatmon@personcountync.gov or call (336) 597-1752.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Section 1: Business Profile
1. Business Name: _________________________________________________________
2. Address: _______________________________________________________________
3. Primary Contact Name & Title:
_______________________________________________________________________
4. Phone: _________________________________________________________________
5. Email: _________________________________________________________________
6. Website: _______________________________________________________________
7. Year Established in Person County: ________________________________________
8. Ownership:
o ☐ Local
o ☐ Regional
o ☐ National
o ☐ International
9. Ownership Structure:
o ☐ Cooperative
o ☐ Branch/Franchise
o ☐ Management team
o ☐ Owner/operator
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10. Industry Sector (Check all that apply):
o ☐ Manufacturing Utilities
o ☐ Retail Transportation/Warehousing
o ☐ Healthcare Educational Services
o ☐ Construction/Skilled Trade Healthcare/Social Assistance
o ☐ Professional Services Arts, Entertainment, Recreation
o ☐ Accommodation/Food Service Finance/Insurance
o ☐ Agriculture/Forestry/Fishing/Hunting Government
o ☐ Other: __________________________________________________________
11. What goods and/or services does your business produce or provide?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Section 2: Employment & Workforce
11. Current Number of Employees in Person County:
o Full-time: _____
o Part-time: _____
o Temporary/Seasonal: _____
12. How has your workforce changed over the past 12 months?
o ☐ Increased
o ☐ Stayed the same
o ☐ Decreased
13. Do you anticipate changes in employment over the next 12 months?
o ☐ Increase
o ☐ No change
o ☐ Decrease
14. What are your biggest workforce challenges? (Check all that apply)
o Hiring qualified workers
o Retaining employees
o Training needs
o Transportation for employees
o Housing for employees
o Childcare for employees
o Other:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
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15. Would you be interested in workforce development or training programs in
partnership with:
o ☐ Piedmont Community College
o ☐ Local high schools
o ☐ NCWorks
o ☐ Other: __________________________________________________________
Section 3: Business Climate & Needs
16. How would you rate Person County as a place to do business?
o ☐ Excellent
o ☐ Good
o ☐ Fair
o ☐ Poor
o Other: __________________________________________________________
17. What local factors positively impact your business? (Check all that apply)
o ☐ Local government support
o ☐ Cost of doing business
o ☐ Transportation access
o ☐ Utility services
o ☐ Access to workforce
o ☐ Quality of life
o Other: __________________________________________________________
18. What local factors negatively impact your business? (Check all that apply)
o ☐ Permitting/zoning
o ☐ Broadband/internet access
o ☐ Infrastructure (roads, water, etc.)
o Lack of childcare
o ☐ Access to capital
o ☐ Labor availability
o ☐ Other: __________________________________________________________
19. Does your business need assistance with any of the following? (Check all that apply)
o ☐ Financing/loans/access to capital
o ☐ Business planning
o ☐ Marketing
o ☐ Expansion or site selection
o ☐ Exporting
o ☐ Succession planning
o ☐ Other: __________________________________________________________
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Section 4: Future Plans
20. Do you plan to expand your operations in the next 1-3 years?
o ☐ Yes
o ☐ No
o ☐ Unsure
o If yes, what type of expansion?
☐ Facility/space
☐ Equipment
☐ Hiring employees
☐ New product lines/services
Other: ____________________________________________________
21. Are there any barriers preventing your expansion in Person County?
o None
o ☐ Site/building availability
o ☐ Permitting issues
o ☐ Infrastructure limitations
o ☐ Regulatory concerns
o ☐ Workforce constraints
o ☐ Other: __________________________________________________________
Section 5: Feedback & Collaboration
22. What can Person County Economic Development or local partners do to better
support your business?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
23. Would you like someone from the Economic Development Office to follow up with
you?
☐ Yes
☐ No
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24. Would you be open to participating in business roundtables, networking events, or
local leadership groups?
☐ Yes
☐ No
Thank You!
Your input is greatly appreciated and will be used to guide local strategies to strengthen the
business community in Person County. If you have additional thoughts or suggestions, please
contact Person County Economic Development. We value your insights and would be happy to
hear your thoughts.
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BY-LAWS
OF THE
PERSON COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
ARTICLE ONE
Organization
The Person County Economic Development Commission, Person County, North Carolina shall conduct
its business in a precise and uniform manner. Proceedings of meetings shall be accurately recorded as
valuable records and as a means of avoiding misunderstandings.
Section 1. The authority for creation of this organization is Article 2, "Economic Development
Commission" of Chapter 158 of the North Carolina General Statutes.
Section 2. The name of the organization shall be the Person County Economic Development
Commission, hereinafter referred to as Commission.
Section 3. The County of Person, North Carolina, and its trade area shall constitute the Person
County Economic Development Area.
Section 4. The location of the principal office of the Commission shall be within the bounds of the
City of Roxboro, North Carolina, and such other places as the business of the
Commission may require.
Section 5. The fiscal year of the Commission shall commence on the 1st day of July and end on the
30th day of June.
Section 6. The Commission shall be considered a Public Authority within the meaning of State Law,
Chapter 159, unless specified to the contrary by the creating governmental body.
ARTICLE TWO
Purposes and Objectives
The purpose of this Commission is to assist the County of Person in promoting economic development,
and to establish a framework for local, state and federal efforts toward providing the basic facilities
essential to the growth of the area. Specific objectives of the Commission are, through coordinated and
concerted efforts, to secure full potential development of Person County's resources, including, but not
limited to:
Section 1. Receive from any municipal, joint or regional planning board or commission with
jurisdiction within its area an economic development program for part or all of the area.
Section 2. Formulate projects for carrying out such economic development program, through
attraction of new industries, encouragement of agricultural development, encouragement
of new business and industrial ventures by local as well as foreign capital, and other
activities of a similar nature.
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Section 3. Conduct industrial surveys as needed, advertise in periodicals or other communications
media, furnish advice and assistance to business and industrial prospects which may
locate in the area, furnish advice and assistance to existing businesses and industries,
furnish advice and assistance to persons seeking to establish new businesses or industries,
and engage in related activities.
Section 4. Encourage the formation of private business development corporations or associations
which may carry out such projects as securing and preparing sites for industrial
development, constructing industrial buildings, or rendering financial or managerial
assistance to businesses and industries; furnish advice and assistance to such corporations
or associations.
Section 5. Carry on such other activities as maybe necessary in the proper exercise of the functions
described herein.
Section 6. Encourage the enrichment of curriculum to achieve appropriate occupational training,
including pertinent technical and vocational training within the school systems serving
the area; to assist in securing training programs for industry, business and related entities.
Section 7. Encourage development of programs designed to further health efforts, tourism,
transportation facilities, housing, recreation and related needs for the promotion of the
general economic well-being of Person County.
Section 8. Serve as the Appointing and Hiring Authority for positions with the Economic
Development Department. Such employees shall be subject to the Person County
Personnel Policy.
ARTICLE THREE
Membership
Section 1. The composition of the Commission and terms of members shall be as determined by the
Person County Board of Commissioners as the appointing authority and as amended
pursuant to law from time to time. ‘Member’ is defined to include only those appointed
as regular members and not NON-VOTING EX OFFICIO members since the statutes
provide for an absolute maximum number of members of the board of directors of the
EDC. Only members should be allowed to vote. NON-VOTING EX OFFICIO or other
appropriate PERSON may be allowed to participate, BUT NOT vote, or to attend
executive sessions (CLOSED MEETINGS) upon approval of the members.
Section 2. Both Members and Non-Voting Ex Officios will be required to participate annually in
Ethics Training within the first 90 days of appointment to the Commission, as is feasible,
and within 90 days after each annual meeting, thereafter, at which time Conflict of
Interest Policies will be reviewed and signed. The training shall be conducted by means
approved by the County Attorney.
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ARTICLE FOUR
Authority of Commission Members
Section 1. The government, business and property of the Commission shall be managed by the
Members. The Members shall only act in the name of the Commission when it shall be
regularly convened by its Chairman, or acting Chairman, after due notice to all Members
of such meeting. Each Member, as applicable, shall serve for the term appointed, or until
death, resignation, retirement, removal, replacement, disqualification, or until a successor
is appointed or qualified.
Section 2. At the annual meeting held each January, after the organizational meeting of the Person
County Commissioners. The Members shall elect officers, which shall be Chairman,
Vice-Chairman, and Secretary. The officers of the Commission and the Person County
Board of Commissioners’ Chairman Appointee shall be the Executive Board.
Section 3. The term of such officer shall be for one (1) year. They shall assume office upon election
by a majority, as defined herein, and continue until replacement or re-election at the next
annual meeting. Officers may be elected to succeed themselves or be elected to any other
office.
Section 4. Vacancies in the Executive Board arising from any cause may be filled by the
Commission for the unexpired term of the office creating the vacancy.
ARTICLE FIVE
Duties of Officers
Section 1. The general duties of the Chairman of the Commission are:
A. The Chairman shall preside at all regular, special and emergency meetings of the
Commission and the Executive Board.
B. The Chairman may appoint such committees as the work of the Commission may
require, subject to the approval of the Commission, and shall guide and direct the
efforts of said committees.
C. Disbursement of funds shall at all times conform with the policies as promulgated
by the County and with general and special terms and conditions of appropriated
funds in compliance with any local, state, or federal grants.
Section 2. The Vice-Chairman of the Commission shall perform the duties of the Chairman in their
absence,
Section 3. The general duties of the Secretary are:
A. The Secretary shall verify and authenticate all the records of the Commission and
the Executive Board.
B. The Secretary shall perform such other duties as shall be assigned by the
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Commission.
Section 4. The Executive Director shall be the chief staff officer of the Commission. The Executive
Director shall be an ex-officio member of all functional and standing committees. The
scope of work shall be that adopted by the Commission. The Executive Director shall
function directly under the overall supervision of the Executive Board. All orders and
directives to the Commission staff shall be from the Chairman to the Executive Director.
The Executive Director shall be directly responsible for, but not limited to the following:
A. The Executive Director shall supervise and direct all other employees of the
Commission.
B. The Executive Director shall implement the administrative policies and
procedures concerning the staff and the staff functions as established by the
Commission.
C. The Executive Director shall be responsible for maintaining the necessary records
to satisfy the Commission requirements, and those of such other agencies as may
be involved.
D. The Executive Director shall discharge the functional and operational
requirements as set forth by the Commission.
E. The Executive Director shall expend effort toward establishment of liaison with
agencies of local, state and federal governments, and with financial institutions,
engineering firms, building contractors, public and private utility companies,
locational consultants and other entities either directly or indirectly involved with
business planning and location.
F. The Executive Director may be assigned other duties, or duties may be eliminated
by the Chairman upon approval by the Commission or the Executive Board.
Section 5. The Executive Board shall carry out such functions as the Members may authorize or
direct.
ARTICLE SIX
Compensation
Section 1. Compensation for Commission travel expenses and allowances applicable to the
Commission staff, officers, and Members shall be in accordance with the policies adopted
by the County.
ARTICLE SEVEN
Commission Panels and Task Forces
Section 1. The Chairman may from time to time appoint qualified individuals to serve on bodies
created to achieve specific objectives and purposes of the Commission, subject to the
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approval of the Commission. The creation of appropriate panels and taskforces as
operating entities is hereby authorized.
ARTICLE EIGHT
Meetings
The Commission shall meet regularly, at least every three (3) months.
Section 1. The annual meeting of the Commission shall be held in Person County, North Carolina at
a location approved by the Chairman or Director.
Section 2. Regular meetings of the Commission shall be held as announced in accordance with NC
Open Meetings Law per NCGS 143-318.12. The regular meetings shall be held in Person
County, North Carolina at a location approved by the Chairman or Director.
Section 3. Special meetings may be called by the Chairman or the Director, or by any three (3)
Members, at any time or place by giving forty-eight (48) hours written notice, providing
such notice states purpose for which the special meeting is called.
Section 4. Emergency meetings may be called by the Chairman or the Director, or by any three (3)
Members, at any time or place by giving as much notice as is reasonably possible,
providing such notice states the purpose for which the emergency meeting is called.
Notification of emergency meetings may be by telephone or electronic mail.
Section 5. Whenever there is no business for the Commission, the Chairman may dispense with a
regular meeting in accordance with Open Meetings Law, provided the Commission must
meet every three (3) months.
Section 6. A majority of the board membership shall constitute a quorum. The number required for
a quorum is not affected by vacancies. If a member has withdrawn from a meeting
without being excused by majority vote of the remaining members present, he or she
shall be counted as present for the purposes of determining whether a quorum is present.
If no quorum is present at the annual meeting, a regular, special, or emergency meeting,
there shall be no official meeting.
Section 7. At Commission meetings, each of the Members present shall have one vote. All
Commission actions shall require a majority vote, except as otherwise required by
applicable law.
Section 8. The Commission may authorize in extraordinary circumstances for action to be taken by
a committee of no less than three (3), only for the task appointed.
Section 9. All Commission meetings shall be open to the public and shall conform with the Open
Meeting Law.
Section 10. The question of parliamentary procedure shall be decided according to Robert’s Rules of
Order.
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ARTICLE NINE
Budget
Section l. The budget for the Commission shall be as authorized by the Person County Board of
Commissioners and shall be executed pursuant to County and State rules.
ARTICLE TEN
Records
Section 1. The Commission staff shall maintain a file of all studies, plans, reports, and
recommendations made by the Commission in the discharge of its duties and
responsibilities.
Section 2. An annual report shall be given to the governing body of Person County.
ARTICLE ELEVEN
Confidentiality
All members of the Person County Economic Development Commission shall be required to sign and
honor a confidentiality agreement, which shall pertain to all current economic development projects, all
personnel matters involving the Economics Development Department, and other matters required to
remain confidential by law.
ARTICLE TWELVE
Amendments
These Bylaws may only be amended by the Person County Board of Commissioners; however, the
Economic Development Commission may recommend amendments to the Person County Board of
Commissioners for consideration and subsequent approval by the Board of Commissioners.
ARTICLE THIRTEEN
Dissolution and Liquidation
The authority for the Commission may be repealed in the same manner as it was originally authorized
resulting in the dissolution of the Commission. Said notification of resolution of repeal shall be subject to
the notice period as defined in the General Statutes of North Carolina.
In the event of dissolution and liquidation of the Commission, the Commission shall, after paying or
making provisions for the payment of all the liabilities, debts and obligations of the Commission, dispose
and distribute all assets of the Commission exclusively for the purposes of the Commission, subject to the
approval of the creating body.
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Revised May, 2011; September 20, 2012; May 2013; August 30, 2017; October 22, 2019, May 28, 2020,
August 18, 2025
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Highlights
July 2025 - August 2025
- Brandy participated in the 2nd annual Economic Development
Workshop.
- The Chamber hosted a breakfast for the new teacher of Person
County Schools.
- Golden Leaf applications have been submitted.
- Discussed final road closure plans with Microsoft and NC DOT.
- Zachary announced they received the contract for Duke Energy in
Person County and anticipate a need for 1,000 jobs.
- Several ribbon cuttings took place.
- Bryan participated in National Night Out and Touch a Truck.
- Bri is working on reprinting two of our brochures and creating a new
one for incentives.
- Bri participated in the Regional Tourism Meeting held in Warren County,
where she engaged in a roundtable discussion.
- Congressman Brad Knott visited Person County for a roundtable
discussion.
- Economic Development handed out flyers for the job fair at the
Veterans Ball to support the state's Veterans employment initiative.
- Senator Ted Budd’s office visited the Raleigh Regional Airport.
Upcoming Events of Interest
- Civics Academy starts September 4, 2025
- Ribbon Cutting at Person Industries, September 5, 2025, at 10:00 am
- Person County Job Fair and Resource Expo on September 10, 2025.
- RTRP is hosting an Invest in the Research Triangle Region Event on
September 16, 2025
- Rox N’ Roll Cruise-In is scheduled for September 13, 2025 from 2 pm to
5 pm
-
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- Business After Hours is scheduled on September 18, 2025 from 5:30 pm
to 7:00 pm at Daltons
- Good Morning Coffee Hour with DAV of Person County at Golden
Corral is September 24, 2025 at 8 am
- Personality Festival is October 3 & 4
- The Kerr Tar Summit is scheduled for October 9, 2025.
Information for the EDC Advisory Board
- BRE Survey – please send feedback to Bryan
- Spuntech Celebration
- Louisiana Pacific Request
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