Final public forum slated on Chatham's economic development

Posted Wednesday, July 18, 2007

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Pittsboro, NC - With four public forums already completed, the Chatham County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has slated one final community forum to receive input from residents on economic development. The forum will take place on Wednesday, July 18, 6:30-8 p.m. in Pittsboro, NC at Central Carolina Community College, Building #2, Multi-Purpose Room.

The forum will be led by staff from the University of North Carolina’s Center for Competitive Economies, an economic development research center at the Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise. Chatham County has contracted with the Center to develop an economic development strategic plan.

The forum offers a summary of Chatham County’s current local economy, including its strengths and weaknesses, as well an overview of the steps involved in developing a long-term strategic plan.

“The public forums are a great opportunity for Chatham County citizens to let us know they types of businesses they would like to see developed in the county. Turnout has been good at the two previous forums, with a variety of perspectives represented. We need to hear from as many people as possible; please come and share your views,” said Dianne Reid, president of the Chatham County EDC.

Commissioner Mike Cross, who greeted attendees at the Moncure forum on July 17th, agreed, “I urge residents in the in the southeastern and central areas to also show up to be heard. We do need to hear from businesses and industries in these areas, but we also need to hear from entrepreneurs, the arts community, farmers, and residents who care about jobs for themselves, their children, and their grand-children.”

George Lucier, vice-chairman of the Board of County Commissioners, will bring greetings to the Pittsboro forum on July 18th.