TownTalk: Dan Brummitt On Economic Development 101

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Economic development often is the engine that spurs communities forward as it provides new job opportunities and contributes to the tax base. Sometimes, though, a community needs to have a little “skin in the game” to attract new businesses.

On the campus of the Henderson-Vance Industrial Park is one such example of the kind of investment that prospective industries are looking for – a shell building. There was an offer on the table almost as soon as it was finished. Unfortunately, that deal fell through at the last minute.

But Dan Brummitt, president of the HVIP board, announced on Wednesday’s TownTalk that there’s a new contract on the table. It’s just the sort of activity that local leaders are hoping for as the city and county continue to work together.

“There’s been a lot of activity on that building, and in the industrial park,” Brummitt said, adding that he sees more opportunities for growth in that area. If all goes according to plan, the new owner – yet unnamed – will close in the next few months.

It takes a strong city-county collaboration and partnerships among other agencies to attract and grow business and industry.

Brummitt said he would like to see more private investors stepping in to have a positive impact on growth. “There are people out there that want to be a part of growth in Vance County,” he said.

A private entity can raise enough money to do a job, Brummitt said, but the city and the county have to be involved when the talk is about making sure the infrastructure is in place.

“If the city and county are not involved, that would somewhat limit it,” he said of economic development.

There are a variety of community partners that help to create a strong network of cooperation, and one of those partners is the Economic Development Commission.

Its original iteration goes back to the 1970’s and in the early ‘80’s, it became an official city-county joint effort, Brummitt said, with the county handling the land part and the city bringing in the water/sewer component.

At that time, the role of director was a 50-50 funding split. In 2009, however, Brummitt said the EDC was “rebooted” and that funding split changed to a 75-25 split, with the county taking the larger responsibility.

As of 2011, the county agreed to fund 100 percent of the position. The city appoints three members to the board and the county appoints six members.

The EDC, with its director leading the efforts, is focused on business retention and expansion, Brummitt said.

Current EDC Director McKinley Perkinson announced her resignation recently and Brummitt said County Manager C. Renee Perry has the job of finding Perkinson’s successor.

That being said, the EDC director works with the 9-member EDC board, but generally reports to the county manager.

Brummitt said the EDC director also “obviously would work with the board” on any projects as well as keeping the EDC board updated on potential new businesses coming to the area. A lot of the job involves recruitment of new business, but the EDC director also needs to know the county’s assets.

Having a good working relationship with a cross-section of business and local leaders, as well as the boards is key to working together to accomplish the common goal that is economic development, Brummitt said.

Plus, “that makes for a healthy EDC,” he added.

“I think we’re in a really positive place,” Brummitt said. As the county continues its search for a new EDC director, he said “there’s a whole lot of activity in Vance County right now.”

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TownTalk: Garry Daeke Discusses City Council Retreat

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Henderson Mayor pro tem Garry Daeke reflected on the City Council’s annual planning retreat, which took place Monday. Six of the eight council members were in attendance, as well as Mayor Melissa Elliott and city staff.

Daeke was a guest on Tuesday’s TownTalk, and praised Elliott for the comfortable atmosphere of the retreat.

“She had this set up in a way that was focused, but casual,” Daeke said. “The conversations were really good,” he said, and the less formal atmosphere was conducive to sharing of ideas and listening to others’ observations.

It gave new City Council members Geraldine Champion, Sam Seifert, Tami Walker and Michael Venable a chance to take a deeper look at issues and challenges the city faces away from formal meetings held in Council chambers.

Perennial issues include housing, water, recruiting and retaining employees and the city’s overall appearance and perception, to name a few.

Connected to all those issues is the critical component of money – revenue, salaries for firefighters and police officers, and how to pay for projects that will enhance the city.

“We need some revenue to get some things done,” Daeke said. “If we get additional revenue, it will be well spent.”

Money could be used for redevelopment within the city, he said. Creating more housing in existing neighborhoods gets more properties back on the tax rolls, adding “value to the city and to the quality of life,” he said.

New development is certainly afoot, too, and Daeke said the new Dabney Village near Lowe’s Home Improvement on Dabney Road is waiting on a transportation impact study before it breaks ground.

Once DOT comes back with projections about how the development will impact the 158/Dabney Drive intersection, things can get moving.

“They’re ready to go,” Daeke said of the developers, “which is really exciting.”

Promoting and supporting economic development involves many moving parts, and it can get complicated, Daeke said, but he added that the city’s role is providing water and sewer.

The water project expansion is well underway and he predicted its completion by the end of the year, or the beginning of 2025.

That type of infrastructure is a critical piece for prospective businesses and industry who are considering Henderson or areas just outside the city limits where water and sewer lines can be run.

What began years ago as a $25 million expansion has now swelled to $80 or $90 million, thanks to COVID and increased construction costs.

But thanks to help from legislators and others, Daeke said a combination of grants, loans and revenue bonds has propped up the project and the city has what it needs to complete it.

Once complete, the water system will be able to provide 20 million gallons of water a day to consumers.

Another topic the group discussed involved sprucing up the entryways to the city, especially along Andrews Avenue and Dabney Drive near Beckford Drive, where City of Henderson signs are located.

The signs themselves have gotten a new coat of paint, but perhaps a school or civic group could take on the task of landscaping around those signs. Daeke said the group talked about having two or three projects as a start to make those entryways more attractive.

As city leaders plan for more growth – think future S Line rail corridor and the Dabney Drive expansion – it’s important for everyone to figure out ways to face challenges while focusing on the many positive things about Henderson.

Take downtown, for example, Daeke said.

“We’ve got some wonderful buildings down there,” he said. There are steps that city officials can take to improve the general appearance, from replacing some damaged windows to enforcing ordinances and cutting down on code violations.

It’s probably time for another salary study as the city looks to fill vacancies, especially among fire departments and the police department.

The city needs to be competitive with salary packages to attract and retain staff, who are regularly lured away to nearby communities because they pay more.

Daeke said he tries to think between two to five years in the future as he contemplates projects that will be beneficial to the city.

They aren’t issues that can be solved in one budget cycle, but by thinking about them as longer-range goals, the city’s leaders can work to make progress.

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Remembering Sam Watkins

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The legacy of Sam Watkins is alive and well – flourishing, in fact.

Watkins died 10 years ago – family and friends no doubt still experience the void, but perhaps the grief has softened a bit and is slowly replaced by fond memories of a man who cared so much for his community.

Not only was he a successful businessman – president of Rose Oil Co. – but Watkins was a staunch supporter of the town where he grew up and he was determined to make it a better place.

No doubt his name will forever be associated with what originally was called the Embassy Cultural Center Foundation. Today, the community knows it as McGregor Hall and the Perry Memorial Library.

The new public library opened in 2007, and Watkins was able to see the first half of the vision become a reality.

McGregor Hall, the 1,000-seat theater that occupies the space opposite the library, opened its doors in 2014, the same year that Watkins died.

At the time of his passing, his brother George said it was Sam’s love of this community that compelled him to make sure the cultural arts center was completed.

“It was vital for Vance County to survive in a manner you could be proud of,” George told WIZS News in 2014.

Since it opened, McGregor Hall has attracted quality concerts, shows and more to its stage for the community to enjoy. It rebounded after the pandemic and continues to provide entertainment for individuals in this community and beyond.

It was Sam’s vision to make the cultural center – the venue now called McGregor Hall – an asset for the community, both culturally and economically.

“We’re gonna do it,” George said in that 2014 interview.

“He never relented until he accomplished what he wanted to accomplish,” George said of his twin. “And he was good at it.”

Yes, he was.

And a grateful community continues to benefit from the vision that Sam Watkins had.

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Cooperative Extension With Paul McKenzie: What Works in the Garden

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Listen live at 100.1 FM / 1450 AM / or on the live stream at WIZS.com at 11:50 a.m. Mon, Tues & Thurs.

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MPH Employees Get Special “Kindness Bag” From South Henderson Pentecostal Holiness Church

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– Submitted by MPH Marketing Coordinator Donna Young

In a world often overshadowed by negativity and turmoil, it’s truly heartwarming to witness acts of kindness that restore faith in humanity. The recent gesture by South Henderson Pentecostal Holiness Church toward our staff at Maria Parham Health is a shining example of the power of community and compassion.

Led by the dedicated Pastor Rhonda Pulley and her team, the church delivered an extraordinary gift to employees of Maria Parham Health. Each staff member was gifted with a “Kindness Bag” overflowing with thoughtful items – a gesture of generosity but also representing a sense of care and appreciation for what the hospital staff means to the community.

The bags were filled with essentials like water bottles, snacks and candy; items that might seem small in isolation but carry immense significance, especially for the healthcare workers serving our community.  In addition to these practical items, the inclusion of bracelets bearing messages of love serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of humanity, particularly during challenging times.

This gesture goes beyond the tangible contents of the bags; it speaks volumes about the values upheld by South Henderson Pentecostal Holiness Church and its commitment to supporting and uplifting others. In a world where divisions often overshadow unity, such acts of kindness bridge gaps and foster a sense of belonging and solidarity.

Gestures like these serve as beacons of hope and remind us that even in the face of adversity, kindness and compassion prevail. They inspire us to look beyond ourselves and seek opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others, no matter how large or small the gesture.

As we reflect on the kindness demonstrated by the South Henderson Pentecostal Holiness Church, let us also be inspired to emulate their example in our own communities. Whether it’s a simple act of kindness or a grand gesture of generosity, each effort contributes to building a more compassionate and caring world for us all.

We at Maria Parham Health would like to extend our exceptional gratitude to Pastor Pulley and her South Henderson Pentecostal Holiness family. Their generous gift reminds us that together, through acts of love and compassion, we can truly make a difference in the lives of others.

VCS Names February Student Spotlight Winners

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-information courtesy of VCS Chief Communications Officer Aarika Sandlin

Three students have been recognized as February’s Student Spotlight winners in Vance County Schools.

Briarlyn Currin of E.O. Young Elementary, Kaiden Bates of Vance County Middle, and Jamehas Whitaker at Carver Elementary have been honored for their exceptional qualities and contributions to their respective school communities, according to information from VCS Chief Communications Officer Aarika Sandlin.

The Student Spotlight program, sponsored by Vance County Schools and the Vance County Public School Foundation, celebrates exceptional students who are making a difference in their schools. These students have not only demonstrated excellence in their academics but also exhibited commendable qualities such as kindness, dedication and a commitment to personal growth.

Briarlyn Currin, E.O. Young Elementary 

Briarlyn is a second-grader who consistently exhibits exceptional academic performance and is known for her kindness. Staff describe her as one of the nicest students you will ever meet. She particularly excels in math, finding satisfaction in overcoming its challenges. Her motivation to attend school stems from her desire to further enrich her intellect. Briarlyn finds joy in studying Life Cycles in CKLA reading. She extends her advice to other students, inspiring them to work hard, pay attention in class and to always be nice to others.

Apart from her academic pursuits, she nurtures a fascination for nature, particularly birds and dinosaurs. Briarlyn is currently a Girl Scout in Troop 508 and enjoys playing soccer in her time outside of school. Her favorite activities include watching Disney’s Descendants and reading The Bad Guys. With aspirations to become both an artist and a baker, she looks up to her mom, especially for her baking skills. Asked where she would love to visit one day, Briarlyn shared that she would love to go back to visit the waterparks in the Bahamas.

Kaiden Bates, Vance County Middle 

Kaiden is a 7th-grade student known for his diligence and compassion. Principal Dr. Stephanie Ayscue described him “as a caring student, who goes out of his way to help those who need assistance. Kaiden represents every qualification necessary to be VCMS’s Student Spotlight representative.”

While Kaiden finds joy in math, he especially thrives in science, enjoying hands-on learning through labs and experiments. One of the most memorable things Kaiden learned in school is how to work a robot. His advice to others is to pursue your goals and work hard to earn money, allowing you to afford the things you want.

Kaiden participates in the Youth Leadership Academy. Beyond his academic pursuits, he finds fulfillment in playing football and spending quality time with his family. He also contributes to his church’s technology team, assisting in broadcasting the church service for remote attendees. Kaiden harbors diverse career aspirations, including becoming an FBI agent, surgeon, firefighter or NFL football player. If granted a wish, Kaiden desires financial abundance to support his family and aid the homeless, while also prioritizing savings. He draws inspiration from his family, particularly his accomplished older sister, whom he admires as a positive influence.

For an adventurous journey, Kaiden dreams of exploring the Grand Canyon in Arizona.

Jamehas Whitaker, Carver Elementary 

Jamehas Whitaker, a 3rd-grader, is recognized for his exemplary dedication and a student who delves into all subjects with enthusiasm. His teacher, Lillian King, said Jamehas is always willing to help others and he generously shares strategies with his classmates. His passion for social studies stands out, as he enjoys exploring the multitude of historical events and topics, specifically the Roman Empire, which was enhanced during CKLA reading.

Jamehas’s drive motivates him to attend school every day, propelling him toward his goal of becoming a scientist. He shares with his peers to never give up and always try your hardest; be the best you can be in life. Jamehas shared that the best thing about being a student at Carver Elementary is the kindness of all his teachers and staff.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Jamehas finds enjoyment in watching his favorite movie, Fast and the Furious 10. He also has a diverse taste in music and enjoys playing outside in his free time. Jamehas’s parents are his greatest influence because they provide significant support to ensure his success in life. His older brother, Jemaine Jr. from Vance County High, serves as a role model to him because Jamehas admires his prepared mindset. If he had a magic wand, Jamehas, an avid reader, would wish for a room full of books about Albert Einstein.

Congratulations to all the February Student Spotlight recipients!

 

 

TownTalk: Granville County Features Weddings, Ambulances And Vikings In March

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Whether planning a wedding, family reunion or a party to celebrate one of those “milestone” birthdays, Granville County Tourism Director Angela Allen said there will be something for everyone at Saturday’s Wedding and Special Event Expo.

The event will be held on Saturday, Mar. 2 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Creedmoor Community Center and Allen said it’ll be “one-stop shopping” to learn about everything from like venues and photographers all the way to music, caterers and gifts for the bride and groom.

This year’s expo features a formalwear shop in Durham, who will have information about not just wedding attire, but also for proms, dances and other special occasions.

Allen told WIZS’s co-host Bill Harris the expo evolved – thanks to COVID – from the original Brides on Wheels event to an expo that houses a variety of vendors under one roof.

The BOW event began in 2015 as a way to showcase the different wedding venue options. But when COVID restrictions were in place by 2020, Allen said it wasn’t feasible to load a bus and then visit the different featured venues.

When one door closes, another door opens.

“Because of COVID, we aren’t taking life for granted anymore,” Allen said. So whether you’re a bride-to-be or you’re “going over the top” to plan a birthday party, the expo is for you.

“We’re trying to give you the perfect day – whatever you want that day to look like,” Allen said.

“We jam pack a lot in three hours.”

The Creedmoor Community Center is located at 116 Douglas Drive in Creedmoor.

The Granville Ambulance Chase and food truck rodeo is set for Saturday, Mar. 16 at Granville Health System. There are races for the serious runners as well as fun runs and a kid dash during the morning and the food truck rodeo will last from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

A group of health system employees calling themselves Trippin’ Breakers will provide live music at the event.

Visit www.ghsAmbulanceChase.org to register and find details about the different race options.

“The Viking Experience” returns to Granville County’s The Barn at Vino in March for a weekend of immersive entertainment. Allen said this is the third year of the event, and there will be plenty of excitement for adults and young people alike on Saturday, Mar. 23 and Sunday, Mar. 24.

There are a few upgrades for this year’s event that should streamline parking and check-in at the two-day event at 3200 Bliss Trail in Stem, Allen said.

“All tickets for the event are going to be bought online,” she said, adding that there will be NO gate or cash sales. A 100 percent online purchase option should speed things up this year.

Having said that, Allen strongly suggests that anyone interested in attending this year’s “experience” should get tickets now before they sell out.

Visit www.thevikingexperience.com to purchase tickets.

There will be an after-hours show on Saturday from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. This is a ticketed event and takes the place of the popular dinner theatre event, Allen explained.

Not to worry, this popular offering is set to become a stand-alone event in the fall, she added.

To learn more about these events and more, check out www.visitgranvillenc.com and social media channels.

 

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TownTalk: City Government And Storming The Basketball Court

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The latest on the Henderson City Council and thoughts on storming basketball courts in celebration of big victories.

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