11-18-2025 Meeting Minutes EDCEDC Minutes for November 18, 2025
Minutes of the PCEDC Regularly Scheduled Meeting
Person County EDC Board Room
303 S. Morgan St., Roxboro, NC 27573
November 18, 2025
Voting Board Members Present:
Dr. Scott McKinney- Chairman Mr. Jay Poindexter
Mr. Phillip Allen- Vice-Chairman Mr. Kenneth Perry
Dr. Claudia Berryhill, Agricultural Representative
The Honorable Sherry Wilborn
Voting Board Members Absent:
The Honorable Merilyn Newell-Secretary
Mr. Jody Blackwell
Ex Officios Present:
Ms. Katherine Cathey, County Manager
Ex Officios Absent:
Mr. Brooks Lockhart, City Manager
Dr. Kevin Lee, PCC President
Dr. Rodney Peterson, PCS Superintendent
ED Staff Present: Others Present:
Ms. Brandy Lynch, Director Ms. Julie Maybee
Ms. Briana Whitt, Specialist (Minutes) Ms. Cynthia Petty
Mr. Bryan Eatmon, Existing Industry Specialist Mr. George Willoughby
Ms. Dana Blackwell
Mr. Bo Freeman
EDC Welcome and Invocation:
At 4:00 p.m., Chairman McKinney called the meeting to order.
The Honorable Sherry Wilborn gave the invocation.
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EDC Minutes for November 18, 2025
Consent Agenda:
Chairman McKinney requested a motion to approve the consent agenda.
A motion made, seconded, and unanimously approved to approve the consent agenda as
presented.
Motion: The Honorable Sherry Wilborn Second: Mr. Kenneth Perry
Calendar Discussion:
Chairman McKinney opened the floor for discussion on the 2026 EDC Meeting. The Honorable
Sherry Wilborn noted her desire for the EDC board and the EDC executive committee to meet
monthly.
A motion was made seconded and unanimously passed for approval of the 2026 EDC Meeting
Schedule with meetings once a month along with the 2026 EDC Executive Commission Meeting
Schedule as presented.
Motion: The Honorable Sherry Wilborn Second: Mr. Jay Poindexter
Follow-up Leadership Summit:
Commissioner Wilborn reported great feedback from our recent event. prioritized product
inventory and housing needs, and reached out to Crystal Morphis at Creative Economic
Development Consulting to organize a housing summit for data and collaboration. She
proposed a $7,500 fee for a two-hour session in late January. Wilborn noted the need to pick a
date soon and aim for a joint meeting to foster continued collaboration.
Dr. McKinney requests your support to approach Person County Business and Industrial Center
(PCBIC) for sponsorship. PCBIC was previously willing to cover the entire cost of the Economic
Development Summit, which the county ultimately handled. Dr. McKinney requested Mr.
Poindexter and Vice-Chairman Allen, to assist Commissioner Wilborn in conversations with Ms.
Morphis the board decided to proceed.
Mr. Perry emphasized the importance of including broadband providers—both private and
government-funded—as stakeholders. He noted that high-speed internet can attract residents,
highlighting that although some high-speed lines are available on nearby roads, they don't
reach certain private neighborhoods. Perry suggested involving these stakeholders to ensure
that housing developments also benefit from high-speed broadband access.
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EDC Minutes for November 18, 2025
Dr. McKinney requested Ms. Lynch share information with the board on affordable. Lynch
provided a presentation (the presentation will be included in the minutes) on meetings she had
previously had with developers about why they are hesitant to come to Person County. She
compiled some insights on the challenges we're facing in attracting large housing projects.
Developers often inquire about zoning regulations, density, utility access, road connectivity, and
local topography, all of which impact their decisions.
They also consider the local housing market and pricing trends. For instance, many homes may
not be affordable for current Person County residents, leading to concerns that new
developments will attract buyers from other counties.
Financial considerations are vital; if developers find the costs—due to topography, infrastructure
needs, and local regulations—too high compared to potential sales, they reconsider their
projects. It's essential for local governments to provide clear guidelines and infrastructure
planning to attract developers.
A motion to move forward with the housing summit was made, seconded, and unanimously
passed.
Motion: Mr. Kenneth Perry Second: Mr. Jay Poindexter
Chairman McKinney appointed Commissioner Wilborn, Mr. Allen and Mr. Poindexter as the
planning committee. The EDC Board authorized Dr. McKinney to seek sponsorship from PCBIC.
Commissioner Wilborn proposed Thursday January 29, 2026 for the Housing Summit but was
not approved.
Product Inventory:
Dr. McKinney announced that he and Ms. Lynch have been engaging with property owners to
discuss their plans and willingness regarding their properties.
Dr. McKinney’s goal is to support property owners in achieving their objectives, whether they
wish to develop or not. Our primary aim is to enhance prosperity. McKinney noted Ms. Lynch
played a vital role in this process by understanding the interests of property owners and
facilitating conversations.
Ms. Lynch reviewed the current inventory. Lynch noted that 415 Semora Road was returned to
the listing after a lease fell through, but its age and outdated interior are major drawbacks for
potential tenants. 1601 North Madison Boulevard, previously a recycling center, is available for
sale only, despite efforts to secure a lease Lynch noted the GKN facility is pending. (The
property list will be included in the minutes)
Ms. Lynch wants to clarify that the properties listed are not the only properties under discussion
at this time.
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EDC Minutes for November 18, 2025
Ms. Lynch has had interesting discussions at recent economic development conferences about
the growing demand for greenfield sites. Developers prefer these locations to create projects
tailored to their vision, rather than taking over vacant spec buildings, which can burden
taxpayers.
Lynch gave the example of Spuntech, Spuntech likely wouldn’t have chosen the North Park site
if there were existing buildings, as they had specific ideas for their project.
Ms. Lynch has also noted confusion around project proposals and site plans. The Person County
Mega Park was presented as an example; people mistakenly believed the site plan used for the
Army Corps permit was the plan that had to be used for that parcel.
Dr. McKinney and Ms. Lynch recently discussed the increasing demand for smaller sites.
Developers are often looking for buildings that occupy just 100,000 or 200,000 square feet, or
even property as small as 100 acres. There are very for request for parcels over 150 acres
anymore; it’s usually for smaller parcels. Lynch noted that larger property mega sites are
becoming scarce and are no longer available.
Mr. Perry inquired about the existing buildings and their status, whether they are leased or for
sale. Lynch noted one issue with existing buildings are ceiling height. He questioned the owners
‘willingness to invest in the properties by to raise their ceiling heights. Ms. Lynch mentioned that
she had spoken with several landowners regarding this matter. The primary concern, as she
noted, is the cost. Lynch believes some properties with Hwy 501 access would be better off if
purchased, demolished, and rebuilt from scratch.
She recently met with a developer who was having difficulty leasing or selling a property. He was
stuck because he invested in upgrading certain aspects of the existing building, such as the fire
sprinkler system and flooring. Despite his renovations, there was a fundamental issue: he didn’t
increase the ceiling height.
Ms. Lynch discussed Bladen County's approach to spec buildings, they started with small spaces,
and expanded to larger ones. This process resembles an incubator model, allowing businesses
to grow into their space. She had worked with a developer interested in this concept, but
unfortunately, they were outbid on the project.
Raleigh Regional Update:
Ms. Cathey gave an update on Raleigh Regional Airport and reported a visit from the
Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation (NCDOA) (Cathey’s presentation will be
included in the minutes.
The runway rehabilitation project, enhancing safety and addressing pavement over 20 years old
have been completed. Cathey explains the runway extension project is next, and thanks to
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EDC Minutes for November 18, 2025
federal and state funding, the county's financial contribution is minimal. The current project is
the rehabilitation of the state-maintained access road leading into the airport.
The new terminal building is in the design phase. The existing terminal is about 1,600 square
feet, while the NCDOA standards suggest it should be around 4,500 square feet. After evaluating
options, the decision was made to construct a new terminal connected to the existing terminal
by a breezeway. This will allow the current terminal maintain certain operations.
The commissioners have allocated $2 million for the project, and the county is seeking
additional funding. Conversations with the Division of Aviation have revealed potential extra
funding for both the terminal and the priority runway extension project. The runway is being
extended to nearly 7,000 feet, with significant funding already secured.
Alpha Craft currently has a short-term lease at the county-owned parcel next to the airport. They
plan to relocate their corporate office and operations from Virginia to Person County, creating
new jobs and building facilities, including a hangar. The county is currently working with the FAA
to accommodate the request by Alpha Craft to purchase the parcel. Cathey notes the county
must retaining the property that connects to the runway. Alpha Craft has plans to enter into a
long-term lease with the county for a corporate hangar
Chairman's Report:
Dr. McKinney mentioned that Mayor Newell couldn't attend today, but many have expressed
their appreciation for her contributions over the years. A certificate of appreciation will be
presented to her for her outstanding volunteer service, recognizing her dedication and kindness.
Additionally, in collaboration with the county manager, a brick will be purchased from the
Economic Development Commission at the history museum and inscribed in her honor.
Dr. McKinney reminded everyone to read emails about meetings carefully, especially now that
we have a formal executive committee. Notices will be sent to the sunshine list, so please pay
attention to which meetings require your attendance.
McKinney noted, Julie Maybee represented the Tourism Development Authority excellently at
the last Person County Commissioner Meeting, presenting an impressive annual report that
highlighted tourism's role in economic development. McKinney noted the new county planning
director, Nishith Trivedi, continued work on text amendments that improve clarity and simplicity
for the planning staff and businesses alike.
Member Comments:
Dr. Berryhill shared the TDA annual report, highlighting a 4.3% increase in tourism's economic
impact, totaling $57.61 million in 2024. This revenue primarily comes from market taxes rather
than property taxes, benefiting those who spend money in the county. The recent flood has
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EDC Minutes for November 18, 2025
affected Airbnb income, with short-term rentals contributing to 33% of occupancy taxes, and
recovery remains ongoing.
Dr. Berryhill noted Farm City Week events were well-attended, especially the breakfast hosted by
the Thomas family, who will receive a statewide award in the spring. The farm tour was
enlightening, showcasing the challenges and successes of their operations. Berryhill expressed
her pride on the achievements and efforts of Cooperative Extension in promoting agricultural
awareness.
Commissioner Wilborn expressed gratitude for the data provided and discussed the importance
of agricultural conservation in the county. She highlighted the growth of Farm City Week and
veterans’ events that raised awareness for agriculture and community engagement. A recent
map illustrated the significance of land in deferred value related to agriculture, horticulture, and
forestry, amounting to over $4.15 million in deferred revenue for the county. Wilborn noted the
crucial role of Duke Energy, whose property tax value offsets this revenue, representing about
20% of all taxes collected. She emphasized the need for positive messaging about the balance
between development and conservation, encouraging continued industrial growth and
recruitment to support the county's tax base.
Mr. Allen discussed the annual Piedmont Community College Golf Classic, which successfully
raised over $45,000 this year. Over the past 35 years, the event has generated more than
$800,000 in scholarship funds for students in Person County, helping them access education and
better job opportunities. The event also celebrated Dr. Owens, who served as president for 23
years, and acknowledged the contributions of sponsors and attendees.
Mr. Perry highlighted the need for balance between growth and conservation, noting the
differences between the two. He proposed inviting the new planning director to meetings to
better understand growth proposals and decision-making related to regulations.
Director's Report:
Ms. Lynch reviewed information received at RTRP quarterly meeting. She shared a PowerPoint
presentation with the board that highlighted their regional brochure, targeted at site consultants
and international leaders, and showcased North Carolina and the RTRP region.
Ms. Lynch also attended a Carolina Core luncheon for real estate agents, which could become an
annual event Jingle in Main is scheduled for December 4th. Local business owner Mr. Downey
allowing small businesses to set up at no cost. The team is also exploring small business loans
and planning for Small Business Week.
Lynch met with Dr. Lee, the new Piedmont Community College president and the new Piedmont
Community College Foundation Director. Lastly, Mr. Holmes with RTRP shared an update on his
work with international delegations, highlighting that North Carolina’s marketing initiatives are
resonating globally, with notable traction in Switzerland.
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EDC Minutes for November 18, 2025
Next Meeting:
A motion was made, seconded, and unanimously passed to a formal meeting in December 2025.
Motion: Mr. Kenneth Perry Second: Mr. Jay Poindexter
The next meeting is announced for Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. in the Person County
EDC Boardroom, 303 S. Morgan St., Roxboro, NC 27573.
Adjournment:
A motion was made, seconded, and unanimously passed to adjourn the meeting at
approximately 5:53 p.m.
Motion: Ms. Claudia Berryhill Second: Mr. Kenneth Perry
_____________________________________ ______________________________________
Date Approved Secretary
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Date: November 18, 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
• September 23, 2025 Meeting Minutes
• October 16, 2025 Meeting Minutes
• October 24, 2025 Meeting Minutes **Request a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as presented
Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman
4:03 Calendar Discussion 2026 EDC Meeting Schedule **Request a motion to approve the 2026 meeting schedule as presented Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman
4:10 Follow-up Leadership Summit The Honorable Sherry Wilborn 4:25 Product Inventory Ms. Brandy Lynch, ED Director 4:35 Raleigh Regional Update Ms. Katherine Cathey, County Manager 4:45 Chairman Report Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman 4:50 Member Comments Members and Ex Officios 4:55 Director Report Ms. Brandy Lynch, ED Director 5:00 Next Meeting
TBD Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman 5:00 **Adjourn Dr. Scott McKinney, Chairman **Action Requested
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*The EDC meets on the 4th Tuesday of every month. However, since the 4th Tuesday of December 2026
falls within the week of a major holiday, the Commission will decide 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.
««Notice: For Emergency and/or Special Called Meetings of the EDC, please check
the EDC Meeting Materials section of the EDC website.»»
Upcoming 2026 Meeting Dates for the
Person County Economic Development Commission
Date: Time: Location:
January 27, 2026 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
February 24, 2026 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
March 24, 2026 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
April 28, 2026 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
May 26, 2026 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
June 23, 2026 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
July 28, 2026 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
August 25, 2026 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
September 22, 2026 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
October 27, 2026 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
November 17, 2026 4:00 p.m. Person County Transit & Development Building***
December 2026* TBD TBD
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*The EDC Executive Committee meets on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. Since there has not been a
regular scheduled meeting in December 2026, the commission will decide 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
For more information, please contact the ED Office at 336.597.1752.
Upcoming 2026 Meeting Dates for the
Person County Economic Development Commission Executive Committee
««Notice: For Emergency and/or Special Called Meetings of the EDC, please check
the EDC Meeting Materials section of the EDC website.»»
Date: Time: Location:
January 13, 2026 9:00 a.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
February 10, 2026 9:00 a.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
March 10, 2026 9:00 a.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
April 14, 2026 9:00 a.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
May 12, 2026 9:00 a.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
June 9, 2026 9:00 a.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
July 14, 2026 9:00 a.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
August 11, 2026 9:00 a.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
September 8, 2026 9:00 a.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
October 13, 2026 9:00 a.m. Person County Transit & Development Building**
November 10, 2026 9:00 a.m. Person County Transit & Development Building***
December 2026* TBD TBD
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Not Submitted Due To:
1. Distance from Interstate (5–20 miles)
2. Ceiling height (32–36 ft)
3. Square footage/acreage (50k–100k sqft or 40–100 acres)
0 2 4 6 8 10 12
5-10
10-20
20-30
30-50
50-100
100+
ProjectsAcres0246810121416
5,000-50,000
50,000-100,000
100,000-200,000
200,000-300,000
300,000-550,000
550,000+
ProjectsSQFT
Preferred Rail
11.6%
Rail not Required
88.4%
86
Project Requests
January 2025 – Current
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LOCATION📍📍: 385 MEMORIAL DRIVE
TYPE OF SPACE 🏢🏢: COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL
SIZE📏📏: 183.90 ACRES
LOCATION📍📍: 50 PROVIDENCE RD.
TYPE OF SPACE 🏢🏢: INDUSTRIAL
SQUARE FOOTAGE (SQFT) 📏📏: 260,000 SQFT
CEILING HEIGHT 📐📐: 15 FT
Available Properties:
LOCATION📍📍: 415 SEMORA RD
TYPE OF SPACE 🏢🏢: OFFICE
SQUARE FOOTAGE (SQFT) 📏📏: 3,100 SQFT
CEILING HEIGHT 📐📐: 9-10 FT
LOCATION📍📍: 2473 DURHAM RD
TYPE OF SPACE 🏢🏢: INDUSTRIAL
SQUARE FOOTAGE (SQFT) 📏📏: 88,000 SQFT
CEILING HEIGHT 📐📐: 18 FT
LOCATION📍📍: 4080 DURHAM RD.
TYPE OF SPACE 🏢🏢: COMMERCIAL
SIZE📏📏: 40.10 ACRES
LOCATION📍📍: 601 N MADISON BOULEVARD
TYPE OF SPACE 🏢🏢: COMMERCIAL
SQUARE FOOTAGE (SQFT) 📏📏: 19,509 SQFT
CEILING HEIGHT 📐📐: UNKNOWN
LOCATION📍📍: 1803 N. MAIN ST.
TYPE OF SPACE 🏢🏢: INDUSTRIAL
SQUARE FOOTAGE (SQFT) 📏📏: 45,000 SQFT
CEILING HEIGHT 📐📐: 10-14 FT
LOCATION📍📍: 1190 ROBY BARTON RD.
TYPE OF SPACE 🏢🏢: INDUSTRIAL
SQUARE FOOTAGE (SQFT) 📏📏: 246,079 SQFT
CEILING HEIGHT 📐📐: 31 FT
Pending
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Highlights
September 2025-November 2025
- Bryan and Brandy staff attended the NCEDA Fall Conference
- Participated in Vance Granville Job Fair
- Continuing talks with multiple developers looking at land on Hwy 501
- Brandy was invited to speak at the Environmental Issues Committee
- Brandy attended the Carolina Luncheon for Real Estate Agents and
Consultants
- Brandy attended the quarterly meeting with RTRP
- The Farm City Breakfast was well attended and turned out to be a
larger crowd than expected
Upcoming Events of Interest
- Jingle on Main December 4
- The Economic Development Department will be closed for
Thanksgiving on November 27-28 and Christmas on December 24-26
- Numerous Business After Hours and Ribbon Cuttings
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Person County Leadership Summit Summary 2025
Vision: Person Conty is a prosperous and vibrant community
that values its rural character, fosters collaboration, and
ensures a safe and thriving environment for residents,
businesses, and visitors.
Mission: Person Conty will build a growing rural economy by
attracting and retaining a skilled workforce, supporting
business start up and growth, and fostering a business
climate that attracts investment.
Person County Leadership Summit Summary
Person County Board of Commissioners, City of Roxboro Council, and the Person County
Economic Development Commission Board convened a leadership summit to develop joint
priorities. The agenda included presentations on the fundamentals of economic
development and an assessment of Person County’s competitiveness. Participants
workshopped initiatives in business attraction, retention, and expansion, product
development, capacity building, entrepreneurship, communications, and talent. The
outcomes are vision and mission statements, prioritized initiatives, and next steps for the top
four initiatives.
Prioritized Initiatives
1. Affordable Housing
2. Sites and Buildings for Business
Attraction
3. Talent Pipeline Development
4. Airport Development
5. Increased Communications
6. Workforce Development Center
7. Shared Vision for the Future
8. Advanced Websites and
Technology Tools
9. Market Job Opportunities
10. Quantify the Return on Public
Investments in Economic
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Person County Leadership Summit Summary 2025
Initiative #1: Affordable Housing
• Define “affordable housing” for Person County
• Inventory housing projects that are in the pipeline
• Ensure UDO is development-friendly
• Partner with developers
• Explore housing incentives
• Assess the housing stock
Initiative #2: Sites and Buildings
• Inventory vacant properties
• Analyze product inventory
• Identify and qualify sites
• Develop funding tools
• Partner with property owners
•Identify funding for site development
•
•
•
•
•
Initiative #3: Talent Pipeline
•
•
•
•
•
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Person County
myFutureNC 2025 Attainment Profiles
Raleigh-Durham
Prosperity Zone Sub-Region
Peer County Type: Rural - Metro
Have Degree or Credential3,85244.1%
No Degree4,88455.9%
Residents Ages 25-448,736
Educational Attainment
Person County residents ages 25-44, 2023
Educational Attainment Trend
Note: 2020 data not shown due to inconsistency Note: Numbers may not add up to 100% due to rounding
Educational Level Breakdown, 2023
1.7%County
vs.3.8%State
Growth Rate
Population Spotlight
2020 Census: 39,088
2023 Estimate: 39,737
Change: 649
Race/Ethnicity
$64,466MedianHouseholdIncome (2023)
State: $70,838
75.9%Home Owners(2023)
State: 66.3%
67.3%Households withBroadband (2023)
State: 77.1%
31.4%Child Poverty Rate(2023)
State: 17.6%
20.0%Single ParentHouseholds(2023)
State: 17.0%
3.1%Foreign Born(2023)
State: 9.2%
Top Opportunities
for Growth
Opportunity Youth
19% of Person County youth ages 16-24 are not working and not in school, above the rural - metro county average of 15%.
Top 3 Five-Star Jobs in
Raleigh-Durham Prosperity Zone
Sub-Region
Job Title Annual Growth
Nurse Practitioners 4.09%
Data Scientists 3.79%
Statisticians 3.71%
Top 3 Employers in
Person County
Employer Employment Range
Person County Board of
Education 500-999
Poly Wood LLC 500-999
County of Person 500-999
Top 3 industries in
Person County
Jobs | Percent
Retail Trade 1,605 | 16.8%
Manufacturing 1,231 | 12.9%
Health Care and Social
Assistance 1,213 | 12.7%
Postsecondary Enrollment for
Person County Residents
Person County residents enrolled in
NCCCS, Fall 2023
Person County is served by:
Kerr-Tar Workforce Development
Board
Kerr-Tar Council of Governments
75.8%
of postsecondary degrees and
credentials conferred by
regional institutions are
aligned with labor market
needs.
Top Misalignments
Job Openings vs. Degrees/Credentials
Health Science Jobs > Creds
Business Management & Administration
Jobs > Creds
Science, Technology, Engineering &
Mathematics Jobs < Creds
In Raleigh-Durham Prosperity Zone Sub-Region:
0 Individuals served in an ApprenticeshipNC program in 2023
UNC and NC Community College Outcomes:
19,047 graduates in 2020
64.9%of 2016 graduates were employed in NC in 2021
$50,028 annual average earnings of graduates employed in NC
(includes both part-time and full-time jobs), 2021
53.8%of adults (ages 25-44) in Person County earned a family
sustaining wage. Peer: 46.7% | State: 57.6%, 2023
18.8%of youth (ages 16-24) in Person County were Opportunity
Youth. Peer: 14.8% | State: 10.3%, 2023
83.5%of adults (ages 25-44) in Person County participated in the labor
force. Peer: 80.7% | State: 84.2%, 2023
2030 Proposed Person County Attainment Goal: 5,871 (Stretch Goal: 5,952)2030 State Attainment Goal: 2 million
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Updated: Oct 29 2025
Top Opportunities
for Growth
Postsecondary Completion
53% of Person County high school graduates who enroll in postsecondary education earn a degree or credential within 6 years, below
the rural - metro county average of 57%.
Degree Credentials Awarded in PZ Sub-Region, 2023
4,998 certificate 5,648 associate 16,524 bachelor’s
42 Basic Skills
506 Continuing Education
233 Curriculum
18.8% of residents (aged 25-44) have some college but no
degree. Peer: 16.0% | State: 11.7%, 2023
11.5% of Person County residents have student loan debt; 2.8% of
debt holders had student loans in default. 2024
Adult Learners
Person County Residents Aged 25+ enrolled in NC Community Colleges,
Fall 2023
75.3% of students who enroll persist to their second year.
Peer: 80.1% | State: 83.8%, 2023
89.7%UNC 60.3%NCCCS 73.3%NCICU
52.5% of students who enroll earn a degree or certificate within 6
years. Peer: 57.5% | State: 60.0%, 2023
30.5%UNC 13.0%NCCCS 5.6%NCICU
Success of Person County High School Graduates
Top destinations of all college-goers, 2023
• 1,232 of all college-goers attended Piedmont CC
• 136 of all college-goers attended Durham TCC
• 98 of all college-goers attended East Carolina University
Top Opportunities
for Growth
Postsecondary Enrollment
45% of Person County seniors enroll in postsecondary education within 12 months of graduation, below the rural - metro county average
of 52%.
47.9% of 2024 high school class completed the FAFSA as of Sept. 27, 2024.
76 more need to complete in 2024 to meet state goal of 80%. Peer: 52.0% |
State: 55.0%
Post High School Graduation Intentions
54.2% of students have parents
with no college degree (either 2-
or 4-year) 2023
Peer: 55.2% | State: 45.1%
83.1% of 9th graders graduated within four years. 42 more needed to meet
state goal of 95%. Peer: 85.7% | State: 87.3% 2024
44.9% of graduates enrolled in a postsecondary institution within 12
months. Peer: 52.0% | State: 59.3% 2023
Postsecondary Enrollment Rates for Select Groups in Person County, 2023
Note: Outcomes for groups with less than 10 students, <5% or >95% are not displayed.
Top Opportunities
for Growth
Reading Performance
24% of Person County 3-8 graders earn college-and-career-ready scores in Reading, below the rural - metro county average of 25%.
67.0% of eligible 4-year-olds enrolled in NC Pre-K program in 2024. 16 more
needed to meet state goal of 75%. Peer: 61.7% | State: 57.2%
Note: Enrollment numbers only include students served by the NC Pre-K Program and may notrepresent all Pre-K offerings available.
23.9% of 3-8 graders earned college-and-career-ready scores in reading in
2024. 1,013 more needed to meet state goal of 73%.
Peer: 25.3% | State: 29.8%
36.3% of 3-8 graders earned college-and-career-ready scores in math in
2024. 1,026 more needed to meet state goal of 86%.
Peer: 32.3% | State: 36.5%
23.0% of students were chronically absent from school in 2024. 546 fewer
needed to meet state goal of 11%. Peer: 27.4% | State: 25.7%
Person County has a student-to-school counselor ratio of 332:1
compared to 352:1 in peer counties. 2024
0.2% of students drop out of high school (2 total students), compared to
2.1% statewide. 2023
Person County Traditional Public Schools students:
School & Student Overview (2024 school year)
Traditional Public School District(s): 1
Traditional Public School(s): 12
Charter School(s): 2
Private School(s): 2
Home School(s): 240
5,877 total K-12 students enrolled in
schools.
Students in traditional public schools completed 1,915 Career & Technical Education
(CTE) credentials and 239 concentrations. 339 (17.7%) of credentials were industry-
valued in 2023. The top three CTE concentrations: Architecture and Construction; Health
Science; and Human Services.
70 (6%) high school
students took at least one
AP, IB, or CIE exam. State:
16.8% (2023).
159 (52.1%) high school graduates
participated in Career & College
Promise programs. State: 36.0%
(2024).
Pathways to College and Career
Person County 2025 Attainment Profile (all data pertaining to K-12 represents traditional public school students)
For more information about each indicator, including data sources and methodology, visit:
dashboard.myfuturenc.org/county-data-and-resources/
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136 18 of 47
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NOVEMBER 18, 2025
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First Question Asked
“What can we realistically and legally build
on this site?“
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What Developers Look At
•Zoning and allowed housing types
•Maximum density and setbacks
•Utility access (water, sewer, power)
•Road access and connectivity
•Topography, soils, and environmental constraints
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Understanding the local housing market
(price band & absorption)
Next, we look outward at the local housing market. We are trying to answer:
•Price band:What do homes like this actually sell for in this area?
•Absorption:How many homes per month can the market absorb at those price points?
•Buyer profile:Who is buying here, and what can they realistically afford?
In simple terms, this gives us the revenue side of the project:
•“If we build X homes, we can probably sell them for about $Y each,”
•“At Z homes per month, it will take about N years to sell out.”
We don’t start from what we wish homes would sell for; we start from what the local data says buyers are actually paying.
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Other Cost Factors
•Topography
•Rock
•Department of Transportation Requirement
•Local Road/Sidewalk Requirements
•Local Requirement for Infrastructure
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Revenue vs Cost
Total expected home sales (revenue)
–based on realistic price band and absorption
Minus total development cost
–land price
–site work and rock
–off -site road improvements
–vertical construction
–fees, engineering, financing, and soft costs
What’s left is the profit margin.
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Why this matters for public partners
From the public side, a parcel can look “perfect for housing,” but from the
development side, it only works if:
•The market supports prices and absorption strong enough to cover
•The true cost of infrastructure, rock, roads, and regulations
There must be a reasonable margin left after those costs.
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Where Local Governments Can Help
•Providing clear, predictable rules and timelines
•Coordinating on off-site requirements and infrastructure planning
•Making sure expectations around exactions and improvements are grounded in what the
current market can support
When the local market only supports homes in the $250k–$270k range, and the project already
has to cover normal construction and development costs, big extra costs from rock or off-site road
work come straight out of the land value and the developer’s margin.
If those extra costs get too high, the project doesn’t get built—no matter how badly the
community wants new housing on that site.
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Available Properties
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Available Properties
LOCATION: 415 SEMORA RD
TYPE OF SPACE: OFFICE
SQUARE FOOTAGE (SQFT): 3,100 SQFT
CEILING HEIGHT: 9-10 FT
LOCATION: 601 N MADISON BOULEVARD
TYPE OF SPACE: COMMERCIAL
SQUARE FOOTAGE (SQFT): 19,509 SQFT
CEILING HEIGHT: UNKNOWN
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Available Properties
LOCATION: 2473 DURHAM RD
TYPE OF SPACE: INDUSTRIAL
SQUARE FOOTAGE (SQFT): 88,000 SQFT
CEILING HEIGHT: 18 FT
LOCATION: 1803 N. MAIN ST.
TYPE OF SPACE: INDUSTRIAL
SQUARE FOOTAGE (SQFT): 45,000 SQFT
CEILING HEIGHT: 10-14 FT
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Available Properties
LOCATION: 4080 DURHAM RD.
TYPE OF SPACE: COMMERCIAL
SIZE: 40.10 ACRES
LOCATION: 1190 ROBY BARTON RD.
TYPE OF SPACE: INDUSTRIAL
SQUARE FOOTAGE (SQFT): 246,079 SQFT
CEILING HEIGHT: 31 FT
Pending
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Available Properties
LOCATION: 50 PROVIDENCE RD.
TYPE OF SPACE: INDUSTRIAL
SQUARE FOOTAGE (SQFT): 260,000 SQFT
CEILING HEIGHT: 15 FT
LOCATION: 385 MEMORIAL DRIVE
TYPE OF SPACE: COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL
SIZE: 183.90 ACRES
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Swiss Delegation
November 8th, 2025
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Research Triangle
Regional Partnership
(RTRP)
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Regional Brochure
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Life Science Brochure
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North Carolina
Quick Facts
FAYETTEVILLE
CHARLOTTE
ASHEVILLE
GREENSBORO
DURHAM/
CHAPEL HILL
RALEIGH
WILMINGTON
MOREHEAD CITY
Population
$11M
Most Populous State
9TH
Labor Force
$5.5M
People Move
to NC per day
451
Distinct Regions
Piedmont,Mountains, Coast
3
GDP
$839B
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Community
College
58
Community
Colleges in
North Carolina
Annual community
college students
enrolled each
year in NC
600K
Community Colleges
in the Triangle
Region
7
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Average Home Price
By County
Median Price of All Homes
Sold in 2024
Person$369,000 Granville$364,950
Warren$398,750
Franklin$426,675
Nash$336,900
Durham$467,671
Orange$593,250
Wilson$350,000
Wake$532,500
Lee$359,95 Harnett$345,000
Johnston$370,925
Chatham$841,500
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COMPANY NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
Polywood, LLC 500
Duke Energy Progress 226
Spuntech 203
Louisiana-Pacific 150
Person Memorial Hospital 150
Open Book Extracts 95
US Flue Cured Tobacco 103
Eaton Corporation 101
Major Employers
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Farm City Breakfast
2025
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Ignite 2025
KERR-TAR REGIONAL COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS & GRANVILLE
COUNTY
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Carolina Core
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Person County Leadership Summit
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NCDOT Meeting at Person County
Airport
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