What is Economic Development?

Economic development can be defined as activities and programs aimed at improving local, regional, state and national economies by:

Attracting or creating investment to expand the tax base; and
Increasing jobs, wages and personal incomes

Vision

Create an inclusive community where businesses, individuals and governments can reach their full potential and become positive contributors to Lenoir County's growth, economic well being and quality of life.

Mission

Promote economic development in Lenoir County by establishing a diverse employment base with challenging and rewarding jobs for future generations, and a tax base that will support the enhancement of the community's foundation and quality of life.

Lenoir County Economic Development Objectives FY 09-10

Recruit one or more manufacturing prospect for Lenoir county, that will generate at least $50 million in capital investment and add 100 new jobs.

Work with existing companies encouraging them to expand in Lenoir County generating at least $25 million in capital investment and 100 new jobs.

Work with the NC Global TransPark to help locate industry within the TransPark.

Prepare Lenoir County and its municipalities to effecively compete for economic development projects.

Market Lenoir County's strategic assets to potential economic development prospects and allies.

Call on existing industry to build / maintain relationships and encourage retention and expansion in Lenoir County.

Oversee the construction of Shell No. 3 (a 40,000 SF basic industrial building in the 70 West Industrial Park.

Assist the Tourism Director as needed in the development of tourism within Lenoir County.

 

Lenoir County Economic Development Highlights FY 08 - 09

Select Vending $2,430,800 investment and 52 new jobs.

Dopaco $25,276,000 investment and 123 new jobs.

Mother Earth Brewing, LLC $1,480,000 investment and 6 new jobs.

Best Diamond Packaging, LLC $4,500,000 investment and 12 new jobs.

Electrolux $55,000,000 investment.

Construction began on Lenoir County Shell Building #3.

Competition of Smithfield Way in October 2008.

 

Lenoir County Economic Development Goals FY 08 - 09

Recruit one or more manufacturing prospect for Lenoir County generating at least $100 million in capital investment and 1,000 new jobs

Continue to work with the NC GTP to help locate new industry

Work with one or more local companies encouraging them to expand in Lenoir ounty generating at least 50 million in capital investment and 100 new jobs.