Posted on

August 25, 2023, EDC Agenda and Meeting Minutes

Call to Order EDC Meeting/Welcome Board & Guest

Additions/Changes to Agenda

Approval of Minutes

July 28, 2023, Open Session Meeting Minutes

Public Comment

Financial Report

July 2023, Financial Update

EDC Treasurer Nomination

EDC Director Updates

Treasurer Nomination

United Community Bank Signatures

Member Comments

Adjournment (Next EDC Meeting – September 22, 2023)

MINUTES

August 25, 2023

 

NORTH CAROLINA

MITCHELL COUNTY

 

The Mitchell County EDC Board met in person on August 25, 2023 at 12:00pm. Present were Jeff Harding, Richard Canipe, Van Phillips, Charles Vines, Mandi Polly, Amanda Hollifield, Chris Gentry, Matt Ward

Guests— Leo Williams

 

  1. CALL TO ORDER – Charles Vines, Chair, called the meeting to order at 12:03 pm.
  2. ADDITIONS OR CHANGES TO AGENDA — Charles Vines asked if there were any additions or changes to the agenda. There were no changes to the August 25, 2023 agenda.
  3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Charles Vines asked if there were any additions or changes to the minutes. Van Phillips made a motion to approve the July 28, 2023 meeting minutes and Jeff Harding seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
  4. PUBLIC COMMENTS—NONE
  5. FINANCIALS – Matt Ward, Director, presented the July 2023 financial reports to the board.

The July Profit and Loss Statement:

As of July 31, the profit and loss statement show all expenses to fall into the usual routine categories – Accounting, cell, mileage reimbursements, office supplies.

Additional expenses were Chamber of Commerce yearly dues the remaining BAMA small grant totaling all at $1,035.75 After expenses and Interest Income of $236.94 there is net income of $89,201.19.

July Balance Sheet:

The Balance Sheet for July 2023 shows the United Community assets totaled $553,698.21 with fixed assets of $41,340.78 leaving Total Assets of $595,038.99. This amount equals the total liabilities and equity through July 31, 2023.

That concludes the Treasurer’s report for July for your consideration. Mandi Polly made a motion to approve the financial report and Jeff Harding seconded the motion.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER APPOINTMENTS

Darlene Butler was nominated to the board. Van Phillips a motion to approve and Jeff Harding seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

It was unanimously agreed upon to remove Mr. Rob Heffron and Dr. Mickey Duval as authorized signatories from the EDC United Community checking account. Subsequently, it was further resolved to add Mr. Van Phillips and Mr. Richard Canipe as new signatories to the account.

 

EDC DIRECTOR UPDATES:

  • Ellis Lofts: 9 workforce apartments and retail space in Spruce Pine, developed by AMY Wellness Foundation, Dogwood Health Trust, and RYSE.
  • EDC Achievements: Presented to County Commissioners; Amanda Hollifield officially joins EDC Board.
  • MCHP Update: Positive soil reports, architectural design underway, closing in September.
  • BRP Production: Plans for increased 2024 production due to new automotive contract.
  • NC Zoning Conference: Discussions on economic disparities and generational wealth.
  • EDC Website: Received a 64-grade for online marketing; exploring SEO and training options.
  • Dogwood Health Trust Meeting: Discussing potential coverage for GREAT Grant local match.
  • Population Growth: Mitchell Co. gained 435 people in the last two years.
  • Workforce Housing: Planning meeting with real estate agent and investor.
  • CTE High School Program: Discussing computer science courses and hospitality/tourism cluster.
  • Mega Site Talks: Discussions about a 1,400-acre site along Interstate 40.
  • Investment Framer Program: 12-week training for identifying investment opportunities.
  • Historic Preservation: Course participation and property owner outreach.
  • Hotel Market Study: Shared study with hotel developer John Sandler.
  • Signage Lighting: Installed by Dallas Electrical Contractors along Highway 321.

MEMBER COMMENTS—LOCAL UPDATES

Van Phillips:

  • Commons Shopping Center – Auto Zone opening soon

Jeff Harding:

  • loss of a level 3 inspector impact current projects.
  • Worries about the cost for a level 3 inspector.

Tonia Hale:

  • CMS 5 Star Hospital Rating: Received a 5-star rating based on 46 quality measures in 5 categories, including safety, mortality, patient experience, readmission rates, and timely care.
  • New Medical Staff: Dr. Piacentino, General Surgeon, started in June. Dr. Drake, General Surgeon, and Lyn Shelton, Cardiology PA, to start on Sept. 25th.
  • MRI Chamber Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: Held on August 24th with a short program, refreshments, and tours for attendees.
  • Low Turnover: Maintaining low turnover rates among all staff and nursing personnel.

Richard Canipe:

  • Main St. 2nd week of September with Spencer Bost.

Amanda Hollifield:

  • 507 tickets were sold for the auction.
  • Collaboration efforts are being made.

Mandi Polly:

  • Path and Search next summer offering free pool days for the first initiative out this group.
  • L+L Ribbon cutting ceremony September 1st at 9am.
  • Joshua Newton Ribbon cutting ceremony September 22nd at 11:30am.

All:

  • Lost of Tommy impacted everyone.

 

ADJOURNMENT –The meeting was adjourned at 12:58 pm by motion from Van Phillips.

Posted on

September 22, 2023, EDC Agenda and Meeting Minutes

EDC Board Meeting Agenda

September 22, 2023, 12:00 p.m.

Mitchell County Admin Building, EDC Office

 

Call to Order EDC Meeting/Welcome Board & Guest

Additions/Changes to Agenda

Approval of Minutes

August 25, 2023, Open Session Meeting Minutes

Public Comment

Financial Report

August 2023, Financial Update

BAMA Grant Request

EDC Director Updates

Member Comments

Adjournment (Next EDC Meeting – October 27, 2023)

EDC Officers: Chairman, Chuck Vines; Vice-Chairman, Chris Gentry; Secretary, Tonia Hale; Treasurer, Financials, Sharon Gillespie, CPA’s (CPA Firm)

Contact: Matt Ward, Executive Director: 828-385-1242 Email: EDC@mitchellcountync.gov

MINUTES

September 22, 2023

 NORTH CAROLINA

MITCHELL COUNTY

 The Mitchell County EDC Board met in person on September 22, 2023 at 12:00pm. Present were, Charles Vines, Matt Ward, Amanda Hollifield, John Boyd, Jeff Harding, Tonia Hale, Allen Cook, Chris Gentry, and Darlene Butler

  1. CALL TO ORDER – Charles Vines, Chair, called the meeting to order at 12:01 pm.
  2. ADDITIONS OR CHANGES TO AGENDA — Charles Vines asked if there were any additions or changes to the agenda. There were no changes to the, September 22, 2023 agenda.
  3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Charles Vines asked if there were any additions or changes to the minutes. Chris Gentry made a motion to approve the August 25, 2023 meeting minutes and John Boyd seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
  4. PUBLIC COMMENTS—NONE
  5. FINANCIALS – Matt Ward, Executive Director, presented financial reports to the board.
  6. The August Profit and Loss Statement:As of August 31, the profit and loss statement show all expenses to fall into the usual routine categories – Accounting, cell, director services, meals, mileage reimbursements, office supplies.

Additional expenses were AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) dues of $517. After expenses and Interest Income and reimbursement of $268.77 there is net income of negative $8,921.43. This is due to no income except the interest income earned.  As we go through the rest of this year this will continue to be true.  The year-to-date numbers show net income of $80,279.96.

August Balance Sheet:

The Balance Sheet for August 2023 shows the United Community total current assets $544,776.78 and fixed assets of $41,340.78 leaving Total Assets of $586,117.56. This amount equals the total liabilities and equity through August 31, 2023.

BAMA is requesting $7,500 which has increased from $5,000 historically. John Boyd made a motion to approve the request and Chris Gentry seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

EDC DIRECTOR UPDATES

  • MCHP is moving forward on new facility. Anticipate adding more jobs with the new location.
  • Met with PRC’s real estate agent and an investor on workforce housing. Due to investor quote of $300 per sq/ft. to build a quadplex, PRC will be looking at other options.
  • Continuing the 12-week training investment framer program offered through Mountain Bizwork.
  • A buyer will be closing on the Former Pizza Brewery property at Oak Avenue.
  • Shared hotel feasibility study with John Sandler.
  • Received 2 sheets on top 25 things from EDC members.
  • Recruiting several restaurants to look at former Burger King and Hardees.
  • Presented to the Sibelco Community Collaboration last Friday.
  • Segway into my UNC School of Government class on October 6th which will teach us the following topics: Strategic approaches to affordable housing, Affordable housing tools and financing mechanisms, How to assess local housing needs, case studies and exercises, and immediate next steps.
  • The Our State editor plans to do an article about rural mountain treasures.
  • New county map being funded by Made X Mtns. Starli McDowell presented to interested locals about creation of the new county map.
  • Attended the NC 100 Northwest Prosperity meeting in N. Wilkesboro.
  • BAMA has submitted 2023-2024 grant request.
  • Encourage Josh Newton to participate in Spruce Pine’s Main Street Downtown Entrepreneur Assistance Program (DEAP).
  • Matt Ward will get quotes for the lighting on the county signs. Chris will check into different options.

MEMBER COMMENTS—LOCAL UPDATES

Tonia Hale:

    • Blue Ridge Regional Hospital received a 5-star CMS rating.
    • Blue Ridge Regional Hospital received Pathways to Excellence re-designation.
    • The Joint Commission made an unannounced visit and we had no clinical findings.
    • Blue Ridge Regional Hospital welcomes new providers, Dr. Valentino Piacentino (General Surgeon), Dr. James Drake (General Surgeon) and Lyn Shelton, PA (Cardiology).
    • New services: MRI, General Surgery, and Cardiology procedures: TEE’s, cardioversions, and calcium scoring.
    • A new podiatrist will be onboarding in the 1st Quarter 2024.
    • Digestive Health Partners will be coming weekly which will add more days for those needing colonoscopies.
    • Gynecology surgeries will begin in October.
    • ECU Dental plans to start doing dental surgery after the first of the year.

Allen Cook:

  • Young McQueen for site development for Mitchell Recreation Center; work out rooms and walking track
  • Hickory Construction selected for the Law Enforcement Center. Mosely Architect will design and plan to start in 60 days.
  • Working on fixing Altapass Recycling Center and looking at the recycling profitability.
  • Building Inspector interviews in progress, but not Level 3.
  • Departmental training on safety, CPR, first aid, and drug awareness.

Chris Gentry:

  • Ample construction and is actively recruiting many positions

Darlene Butler:

  • Park upgrades: basketball, pickleball, tennis, dog park, and 1-mile trail
  • Main Street hired Spencer Bost as the new Director
  • In search of Public Works Director
  • Grants – RFQ for street skate plans and for stormwater assessment and grant planning coming up.
  • EDA Disaster grant—applied for a waterline grant
  • Town of Spruce Pine is considering Non-Residential Standards Ordinance
  • Police Department working on 2nd canine drug dog

Jeff Harding:

  • Bowman School Project: next 8-12 months

John Boyd:

  • The hotel is in it’s 3rd landscaping layer process; working on installing fire pit
  • Certificate of Occupancy received for the Resource Center for Entrepreneur.
  • YMCA secured the needed funds for it’s 30,000 square foot project; guaranteed maximum price received. Construction begins at the end of October
  • Animal Shelter received funds for Avery County
  • EDA grant – last round for culinary program
  • Parking lot being built behind the planetarium
  • Enrollment has increased at Mayland Community College
  • Spooktacular October 26th 5-7pm

Amanda Hollifield:

  • $500K raised from the benefit auction
  • Contracted with Stitch Design – 50 beds for instructors and students
  • Meetings with Harley for sidewalks for safety
  • TRAC – November 10-12
  • New Exhibits in Spruce Pine
  • Apple Butter Festival – October 20th -21st

Charles Vines:

  • Paved 5 most traveled streets, 6 more to go
  • DOT has agreed S. Mitchell Ave. belongs to them and will need to extend the road
  • Bowman School Project – current building needs to be repurposed
  • Housing – none for sale but will support expanding housing
  • Trick or Treat – October 31st 5-7pm

Darlene Butler:

  • Treasures in Fall – October 14th
  • Rocktober Festival – October 7th
  • Hilloween – October 26th
  • Trick or Treat – October 31st

ADJOURNMENT –The meeting was adjourned at 1:06pm by motion from Jeff Harding.

Respectfully Submitted,

 

______________________________     September 22, 2023

Charles Vines, Chairman                       Date

_______________________________    September 22, 2023

Tonia Hale, Secretary                              Date

Posted on

October 27, 2023, EDC Agenda and Meeting Minutes

EDC Board Meeting Agenda

October 27, 2023, 12:00 p.m.

Mitchell County Admin Building, EDC Office

 

Call to Order EDC Meeting/Welcome Board & Guest

Additions/Changes to Agenda

Approval of Minutes

September 22, 2023, Open Session Meeting Minutes

Public Comment

Financial Report

September 2023, Financial Update

EDC 2024 Meeting Calendar

EDC Director Updates

Member Comments

Adjournment (Next EDC Meeting – January 26, 2024)

EDC Officers: Chairman, Chuck Vines; Vice-Chairman, Chris Gentry; Secretary, Tonia Hale; Treasurer, Financials, Sharon Gillespie, CPA’s (CPA Firm)

Contact: Matt Ward, Executive Director: 828-385-1242 Email: EDC@mitchellcountync.gov

MINUTES

October 27, 2023

 NORTH CAROLINA

MITCHELL COUNTY

 The Mitchell County EDC Board met in person on October 27, 2023, at 12:00pm. Present were, Charles Vines, Matt Ward, Amanda Hollifield, Van Phillips, Jeff Harding, Tonia Hale, Allen Cook, Chris Gentry, Richard Canipe, and Darlene Butler

  1. CALL TO ORDER – Charles Vines, Chair, called the meeting to order at 12:08 pm.
  2. ADDITIONS OR CHANGES TO AGENDA — Charles Vines asked if there were any additions or changes to the agenda. There were no changes to the, October 27, 2023, agenda. Tonia Hale made a motion to adopt the agenda and Van Phillips seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
  3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Charles Vines asked if there were any additions or changes to the minutes. Jeff Harding made a motion to approve the September 22, 2023, meeting minutes and Chris Gentry seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
  4. PUBLIC COMMENTS—NONE
  5. FINANCIALS – Matt Ward, Executive Director, presented financial reports to the board. Darlene Butler made a motion to approve the September financial statement and Jeff Harding seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
  6. The September Profit and Loss Statement: As of September 30, the profit and loss statement show all expenses to fall into the usual routine categories – Director services, accounting, cell, mileage reimbursements, office supplies. Additional expenses were yearly website software, UNC School of Govt Housing Seminar and historic preservation class totaling all at $9,681.43 After expenses and Interest Income of $348.80 the year to date net income totals $70,947.13. September Balance Sheet: The Balance Sheet for September 2023 shows the United Community current assets totaled $535,444.15 with fixed assets of $41,340.78 leaving Total Assets of $576,784.93. This amount equals the total liabilities and equity through September 30, 2023.

 

EDC DIRECTOR UPDATES

  • Board members voted to allow Matt to move forward with pursing the Dogwood Health Trust grant that is for a housing assessment study.The board adopted the 2024 EDC meeting calendar schedule.Completed the 10-week training investment framer program offered through Mountain Bizwork and he can apply for a grant to conduct technical assistance on any given project.
  • A prospective buyer of the Former Pizza Brewery property at Oak Avenue has recorded a commercial access easement and I continue to check register of deeds for official owner transfer documents.
  • I met Luke Fowler, Northwestern Housing Enterprises who is talking with MCHP to contemplate housing options in the Grassy Creek area. Phase I will be 30 affordable units and phase II will be 60 walk up workforce apts.
  • Former Pizza/Brewery on Oak Ave has not finalized sale. They are working to get a commercial access easement recorded.
  • I have two sheets from the top 25 things and the top 5 common EDC tasks to accomplish so far are:

1.Housing 2. Internet 3. More Infrastructure 4. More Businesses 5. Downtown Redevelopment

  • Owner of Hardee’s (Robert Isenburg) reached out. He is asking $600,000k sales price and is open to lease options. I passed the information onto Rob Noyes the owner of Countryside Cafe and hoping to hear back.

 

MEMBER COMMENTS—LOCAL UPDATES

Tonia Hale:

  • Blue Ridge Regional Hospital welcomes two new providers: Dr. Drake, General Surgeon and Lyn Shelton, PA
  • Tonia reported PEX scores are excellent

Allen Cook:

  • Along with the rec center there will be additional parking spaces, a baseball diamond, bleachers, pedestrian bridge over Cane Creek, dog park and a bio retention pond.
  • Bathroom facilities will also be part of the new rec center.
  • A no rise study for the creekwalk extension will be conducted.
  • State awarded the DMV contract to the county.

Chris Gentry:

  • A lot of growth in the next 5-10 years and construction has been active.

Darlene Butler:

  • Splash pad had a success first year and is now closed for the season.
  • Basketball courts at Brad Ragan have been improved.
  • Dog park fencing is going up.
  • New nature trail to be built at Brad Ragan Park.
  • Town is looking into a water and sewer assessment.
  • Grant is being considered for downtown pedestrian bridge.
  • Water tank at the cemetery.

Jeff Harding:

  • Rocktoberfest was a success and 6 artists participated in the event.
  • Recommended for Matt to contact Keith Johnson about his vacant property for sale along 19E and introduce him to a prospective buyer.

Richard Canipe:

  • Spencer Bost is doing well as Spruce Pine Main Street director. Please take the time to meet him if you have not meet him yet.

Amanda Hollifield:

  • This is week 4 of 6 busy weeks.
  • Gallery sales are up 56% but foot traffic is down 12%.
  • 2 open positions at Penland.
  • TRAC and WNC artist retreat coming up.
  • Toe River Arts Studio Tour coming up November 10-12.
  • Nealy was able to get 3 NCDOT art gallery way finding signs for downtown.

Charles Vines:

  • Sidewalk project – along S. Mitchell Ave from HWY 226 to bridge beside townhall.
  • Hilloween – Thursday night was a success, over 300 people turned out.
  • Trick or Treat – October 31st 5-7pm

 

ADJOURNMENT –The meeting was adjourned at 1:02pm by motion from Tonia Hale.

Respectfully Submitted,

 

______________________________     October 27, 2023

Charles Vines, Chairman                       Date

_______________________________   October 27, 2023

Tonia Hale, Secretary                             Date

 

Posted on

March 22, 2024, EDC Agenda and Meeting Minutes

EDC Board Meeting Agenda

March 22, 2024, 12:00 p.m.

Mitchell County Admin Building, EDC Office

 

Call to Order EDC Meeting/Welcome Board & Guest

Additions/Changes to Agenda

 12:00-12:05 p.m. Chuck Vines

Chuck Vines
Approval of Minutes 12:05-12:10 p.m. Chuck Vines
February 23, 2024, Open Session Meeting Minutes
Public Comment 12:10-12:15 p.m. Chuck Vines
Financial Report

February 2024 Financials

 12:35-12:40 p.m. Matt Ward
EDC Director Updates 12:40-12:45 p.m. Matt Ward
Chamber MOA Funding Request 12:45 p.m. Matt Ward
Member Comments Chuck Vines
Adjournment (Next EDC Meeting – February 23, 2024) Chuck Vines

 EDC Officers: Chairman, Chuck Vines; Vice-Chairman, Chris Gentry; Secretary, Tonia Hale; Treasurer, Financials, Sharon Gillespie, CPA’s (CPA Firm) Contact: Matt Ward, Executive Director: 828-385-1242 Email: EDC@mitchellcountync.gov

NORTH CAROLINA

MITCHELL COUNTY

 The Mitchell County EDC Board met in person on March 22, 2024 at 12:03 p.m. Present were, Charles Vines, Matt Ward, Amanda Hollifield, Van Phillips, Jeff Harding, Tonia Hale, Mandi Polly, Allen Cook, Chris Gentry, Richard Canipe, Darlene Butler, Gene Self (Guest-Chamber of Commerce President)

  1. CALL TO ORDER – Charles Vines, Chair, called the meeting to order at 12:05 pm.
  2. ADDITIONS OR CHANGES TO AGENDA — Charles Vines asked if there were any additions or changes to the agenda. There were no changes to the March 22, 2024 agenda. Jeff Harding made a motion to adopt the agenda and Chris Gentry seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
  3. PUBLIC COMMENTS—NONE
  4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Charles Vines asked if there were any additions or changes to the minutes. Matt Ward, Director stated the February 23, 2024, open session and closed session minutes will be ready for next month to be presented and voted on. No action was taken.
  5. FINANCIALS – Matt Ward, Executive Director, presented February 2024 financial reports. The February Profit and Loss Statement shows interest of $275.69 and monthly expenses of $9,575.53 which includes regular expenses of Executive Director payroll, accounting fees, cell phone, mileage reimbursement, meeting expense, and office expense. For fiscal budget year 2023-2024 there is $65,340.56 remaining of the budgeted $180,000. The Balance Sheet for February 2024 shows the United Community Bank Assets totaled $579,156.46 with fixed assets of $41,340.78 leaving Total Assets of $620,497.24. This amount equals the total liabilities and equity through February 29, 2024. Tonia Hale made a motion to approve the financial report and Amanda Hollifield seconded that motion. The motion passed unanimously.
  6. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MOA AND FUNDING – Charles Vines presented the final MOA and funding request of $40,000. There was discussion about adding an extra $2,500 from the original $40,000 request to cover the CPA expenses. The board agreed to add $2,500 for a funding total of $42,500. There was a motion from Jeff Harding to approve the total funding of $42,500 and Darlene Butler seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. The Chamber of Commerce Director recused herself from the vote.
  7. The next discussion was disbursement of funding. For immediate disbursement of $22,500 to the Chamber, $10,000 at the October 2024 meeting when Chamber reports their progress to the EDC board and the other $10,000 will be deposited once the $20,000 is gained in sponsorship.  There was a motion from Jeff Harding to approve the total funding of $42,500 and immediate disbursement of $22,500 with the other $20,000 disbursed per the MOA and Chris Gentry seconded that motion.  The motion passed unanimously. The Chamber of Commerce Director recused herself from the vote.
  8. MITCHELL COUNTY MANUFACTURER/BUSINESS GRANT– The director presented a new initiative to consider two (2) local manufacturer and business grant applications. Eligibility criteria was determined; business must be a member of the Chamber of Commerce. Director to work on revisions; item tabled for next meeting.
  9. MITCHELL COUNTY NEWS JOURNAL ADVERTISING DISCUSSION–The director presented the advertisement opportunity for one full page in the Toe River Destination Guide that will show EDC appreciation of our top twenty employers. The cost is $1,100. There was a motion from Mandi Polly to approve the full-page ad in the Toe River Destination Guide and Van Phillips seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

EDC DIRECTOR UPDATES

  • EDC was unable to apply for the full housing study grant application due to our status has either non-profit or local government; therefore, Mitchell County submitted the application.
  • Had a meeting with NCDOT and High-Country Council of Government to pitch the idea of building a Toe River Valley Visitor Center somewhere in Spruce Pine along HWY 226 or 19E.
  • Feldspar Trucking sold to Trimac Transportation. They have 60 employees and 70 trucks.
  • Roberts an engineering consultant firm rented Matt Buchanan’s building near Penland they have about 100 staff here working on Sibelco projects.

MEMBER/GUEST COMMENTS—LOCAL UPDATES

1. Tonia Hale:

    • Recruiting for general surgeon and primary care doctor.
    • New contrast enhancement mammography projected to be completed in 18-20 weeks
    • The hospital is focusing heavily on employee engagement and retention; recruiting highly qualified individuals
    • Recent Donations:
    • Local High School scholarship donations (Mitchell, Mountain Heritage, and Avery High Schools)
    • SafePlace of Mitchell County
    • Neighbors Feeding Neighbors
    • Local High Schools

2. Gene Self:

    • Appreciates EDC support and looks forward to Chamber working with the community and helping push visitors into the county and to businesses from the visitor center.
    • Four students at ECU Dental School will be entering the dental profession.

3. Van Phillips:

    • Appraisal of the former Market of Oak building will be done soon for future sale.

4. Chris Gentry:

    • Growth continues to be strong.
    • Active local contractors in tech and labor positions.
    • Recruitment of new employees.

5. Jeff Harding:

    • Per the MOA a member of the EDC will be appointed to the Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee. Tonia Hale volunteered to be the EDC representative. Chris Gentry made the motion, and Van Phillips seconded that motion. The motion passed unanimously.

6. Darlene Butler:

    • Brad Ragan Park wrapping up grant activity to include trail entrance, pool slide, etc.
    • Successful for H2o and sewer on inventory assessment grant
    • Engineers selected for H2o grant and street scape grant
    • Stroup Rd Park has began landscaping
    • Seating and landscaping will be installed and additional funds for that property will come in form of grants.
    • Grant awarded for a water and sewer assessment and inventory study.
    • Stormwater grant awarded; engineers are selected now will negotiate a contract.
    • Streetscape grant engineer selected and draft contract submitted.
    • Council will be starting budget workshop.

7. Richard Canipe:

    • Blacksmith Festival coming up last Saturday in April.
    • Spencer Bost is attending NC Tourism conference.

Allen Cook:

    • County is in middle of budget season. Budget workshop towards end of April.
    • The Dogwood Health Trust grant of $375,000 to support housing and infrastructure assessment study has been submitted and has implications for everyone in the county.
    • Bids go out for Mitchell County Recreation Center April 3, 2024.
    • The County will obtain Bowman Middle School and will be up for bid. Brainstorming many ideas for future use, including a recreational center.

Mandi Polly:

    • It has been a good month for the Market on Oak.
    • The Market on Oak will close March 30, 2024.
    • There are 5 applicants for the visitor center position.
    • Working on getting reliable internet access at Visitor Center by May 1.
    • Walmart re-grand opening ribbon cutting April 19 at 9 a.m.
    • Jack’s Lock Smith, Trinity Car Brokers would like ribbon cuttings when the weather warms up.
    • Animal rescue dinner fundraiser at First Baptist Church on March 23 5-7 p.m.
    • 670 on Oak will have RAMP fest on April 27, 2024.
    • April 2 Mitchell County Historical Society will present Tocane in its former glory hosted at Mitchell County Senior Center.
    • Coordinating with SP BBQ Festival and NC Mountain to Coast ride. BBQ Festival is also working on obtaining music.
    • Sandi Buchanan has resigned; will be looking for replacement.

Amanda Hollifield:

    • Penland’s 2025 fiscal budget nearing completion.
    • Actively accepting donations. Hit 400 donors now seeking 500.
    • Chief Advancement Officer, General Kitchen Manager, and Facilities Manager positions open

Chuck Vines:

    • Bakersville approved for $2.5 million to replace 95’ of major sewer line.
    • $300,000k for streambank restoration.
    • Waiting to hear back on Carbon Reduction grant fund.
    • Easter Egg Hunt planning for end of the month.
    • Rhododendron Festival preparation for June.

 

ADJOURNMENT –The meeting was adjourned at 1:11 pm by motion from Tonia Hale.

Posted on

January 26, 2024, EDC Agenda and Meeting Minutes

Call to Order EDC Meeting/Welcome Board & Guest

Additions/Changes to Agenda

 Chuck Vines

Chuck Vines
Approval of Minutes Chuck Vines
October 27, 2023, Open Session Meeting Minutes
Public Comment Chuck Vines
Financial Report Matt Ward
October – December 2023, Financial Update
EDC Director Updates Matt Ward
Joint (Chamber, Dev Foundation, EDC) Meeting Topic Matt Ward
Member Comments Chuck Vines
Adjournment (Next EDC Meeting – February 23, 2024) Chuck Vines

 

 

EDC Officers: Chairman, Chuck Vines; Vice-Chairman, Chris Gentry; Secretary, Tonia Hale; Treasurer, vacant; Financials, Sharon Gillespie, CPA’s (CPA Firm)

Contact: Matt Ward, Executive Director: 828-385-1242 Email: EDC@mitchellcountync.gov

NORTH CAROLINA
MITCHELL COUNTY

The Mitchell County EDC Board met in person on January 26, 2024 at 12:00pm. Present were, Charles Vines, Matt Ward, Amanda Hollifield, Van Phillips, Jeff Harding, Tonia Hale, Ashley Neisser (Guest), Mandy Polly, Allen Cook, Chris Gentry, Richard Canipe, Darlene Butler, Kelly Jones (Guest), Spencer Bost (Guest)

  1. CALL TO ORDER
    Charles Vines, Chair, called the meeting to order at 12:03 pm.
  2. ADDITIONS OR CHANGES TO AGENDA
    Charles Vines asked if there were any additions or changes to the agenda. There were no changes to the January 26, 2024 agenda. Jeff Harding made a motion to adopt the agenda and Van Phillips seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
  3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
    Charles Vines asked if there were any additions or changes to the minutes. Darlene Butler made amotion to approve the October 27, 2023 meeting minutes and Jef Harding seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
  4. PUBLIC COMMENTS
    NONE
  5. FINANCIALS
    Matt Ward, Executive Director, stated October-December financial reports will need to be reviewed with Chase Gillespie and will be presented next month.
  6. EDC DIRECTOR UPDATES
    1. Strong growth was reported in Mitchell County
    2. NC Business Magazine doing a story on Sibelco
    3. Working with Kelly Jones, the new TDA Director, on advertising
    4. Buck Stove is eligible for grant for international trade up to $16k; working with Lowes Canada E. Attended Mountain Community Health Partnership (MCHP) meeting recently.
    5. DHT Grant – $1M
      1. 3 vacant schools
      2. Money for land
      3. Housing assessment study
      4. Broadband meeting coming up on Tuesday
  7. MEMBER COMMENTS-LOCAL UPDATES
    1. Tonia Hale:
      1. Introduced Ashley Neisser, Executive Assistant with Blue Ridge Regional Hospital
      2. Reported a great year with finance, low turnover, patient experience, quality, growth, and community engagement
      3. Dr. James Drake, General Surgeon, and Lyn Shelton, PA are getting settled. Ashley Neisser and Tonia Hale are assisting with provider and community introductions
      4. New services at the hospital include gynecological care, breast and prostate MRI (with new MRI machine), new OB Ultrasound for high OB risk patients, pelvic floor therapy, and cardioversions & TEEs
      5. Made an offer to a Nurse Practitioner for Mauzy Phillips Center—Primary Care
      6. Initial interviews with General Surgeon candidates will be conducted in the next 2 weeks
      7. A donation of $25k has been made to the YMCA
      8. End of year donations include $10k distributed between Mitchell and Mountain Heritage High Schools, Neighbors Feeding Neighbors, and Mitchell County Safe Place
    2. Van Phillips
      1. Tag office going in old Sears building
      2. YMCA construction going well. Targeting a June 2025 opening with 10 employees
    3. Chris Gentry:
      1. Growth continues and recruiting for several positions
      2. Housing in Mitchell County remains an issue
    4. Darlene Butler:
      1. Brad Ragan Park
      2. Dog park open
      3. A handicap swing has been installed
      4. Community Grand Opening targeted for Memorial Day
      5. The waterline grant was unsuccessful
      6. Direct appropriation will be the next step to complete the project
      7. Street Scape Grant – will meet with WithersRavenel
      8. Storm Water Grant – will be re-advertised
    5. Mandi Polly
      1. Mountains to Coast ride (Cycle NC) is scheduled for October 5th; anticipating about 1,000 people in the area during that time
      2. WNC Chamber Executives will be here in the Spring
      3. Looking at sending contracts for the Mineral & Gem festivalSmall Business Summits “Access to Capital” will be held on February 12th from 9a-12p
      4. Outdoor Recreation–$2,500 grant was given to create a map of Toe River Valley for AMY counties. Working with Pisgah maps.
      5. Mitchell Historical Society Board is revamping their mission and vision statement
    6. Allen Cook:
      1. Law Enforcement Center underway
      2. An architect is doing design specifications for the Recreation Center
      3. Colby Silver, Emergency Management, is currently in Georgia working on a grant for a mobile command center
      4. License plate agency almost done
      5. Altapass Recycling Center has been upgraded after the fire; due to be complete by the end of February
      6. Mitchell and Avery counties looking to have a combined animal shelter
      7. Ag Extension Center – trying to get Tobacco Trust Find grant and hope to move to Bowman School once vacated
    7. Jeff Harding:
      1. Nothing to report
    8. Richard Canipe:
      1. Nothing to report
    9. Amanda Hollifield:
      1. Submitted 2023 numbers to Matt
      2. Community Day is scheduled for February 24* from 1pm-5pm. There will be studios open to the public as well and meet and greet with the directors at 4pm
    10. Kelly Jones
      1. Kelly Jones was introduced as the new TDA director and with her was Spencer Bost, Main Street Director
      2. TDA received article 44 funds for rentals
  8. ADJOURNMENT
    The meeting ws adjourned at 1:07 pm by motion from Van Phillips
Posted on

February 23, 2024, EDC Agenda and Meeting Minutes

Call to Order EDC Meeting/Welcome Board & Guest

Additions/Changes to Agenda

 Chuck Vines

Chuck Vines
Approval of Minutes Chuck Vines
January 26, 2024, Open Session Meeting Minutes
Public Comment Chuck Vines
Financial Report

Oct, Nov, Dec 2023 and January 2024 Financials

 Matt Ward
Closed Session (N.C.G.S. 143-318.11 (a) (6)) Chuck Vines
Chamber/EDC MOA and Funding Request Matt Ward
Member Comments Chuck Vines
Adjournment (Next EDC Meeting – February 23, 2024) Chuck Vines

NORTH CAROLINA
MITCHELL COUNTY

MINUTES

February 23, 2024

NORTH CAROLINA

MITCHELL COUNTY

The Mitchell County EDC Board met in person on February 23, 2024 at 12:00pm. Present were, Charles Vines, Matt Ward, Amanda Hollifield, Van Phillips, Jeff Harding, Tonia Hale, Mandi Polly, Allen Cook, Chris Gentry, John Boyd, Richard Canipe, Darlene Butler, Spencer Bost (Guest), Gene Self (Chamber of Commerce President)

  1. CALL TO ORDER – Charles Vines, Chair, called the meeting to order at 12:03 pm.
  2. ADDITIONS OR CHANGES TO AGENDA — Charles Vines asked if there were any additions or changes to the agenda. There were no changes to the February 23, 2024 agenda. John Boyd made a motion to adopt the agenda and Chris Gentry seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
  3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Charles Vines asked if there were any additions or changes to the minutes. Van Phillips made a motion to approve the January 26, 2024 meeting minutes and Chris Gentry seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
  4. PUBLIC COMMENTS—NONE
  5. FINANCIALS – Matt Ward, Executive Director, presented October-December 2023 and January 2024  financial reports.  See attached financials. Jeff Harding made a motion to adopt the financials and John Boyd seconded the motion.  The motion passed unanimously.
  6. CLOSED SESSION (N.C. G.S. §143-318.11 (A) (6)) Charles Vines asked Mandi Polly, Richard Canipe, to leave and for Allen Cook, Gene Self and Matt Ward to stay for closed session. Charles Vines asked to enter closed session, Amanda Hollifield made the motion and Jeff Harding seconded the motion at 12:08 p.m. The motion passed unanimously. Charles Vines asked the board to come out of closed session Jeff Harding made the motion John Boyd seconded the motion at 1:45 p.m. The motion passed unanimously.
  7. MEMBER COMMENTS—LOCAL UPDATES
  8. ADJOURNMENT –The meeting was adjourned at 1:50 pm by motion from Van Phillips.