Economic Development & Job Creation

Economic Development & Job Creation

Focus: Attracting diverse, high-quality industries like advanced manufacturing, technology, and leveraging our unique outdoor recreation assets to build a resilient and prosperous Caldwell County economy, moving beyond reliance on traditional sectors.

My Commitment as Your Commissioner:

A thriving economy with good-paying jobs is the bedrock of a strong community. As your County Commissioner, I won't just wait for opportunities to arrive; I will actively work to create an environment where businesses can flourish and residents can find meaningful employment right here in Caldwell County. Here’s how I plan to be helpful:

1. Actively Recruit and Support Diverse Industries:
   
   

   • How I'll Help: I will champion policies and strategic investments that make Caldwell County highly competitive for new businesses. This means working closely with the Caldwell County Economic Development Commission (EDC) to aggressively market our county, ensuring adequate funding for their recruitment efforts, and supporting the development of 'shovel-ready' industrial sites. I'll advocate for infrastructure improvements, particularly expanding broadband access, which is crucial for tech and advanced manufacturing. Furthermore, I will actively promote the growth of our outdoor recreation economy by supporting initiatives that enhance access to assets like Wilson Creek and connect local businesses to tourism opportunities.

2. Champion Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs:
   
   

   • How I'll Help: Our local businesses are the backbone of our economy. As Commissioner, I will push for a thorough review of county ordinances and processes to identify and eliminate unnecessary 'red tape' that stifles innovation and makes it harder for small businesses to start and grow. I will support funding for local programs, potentially through the EDC or partnerships with organizations like the Chamber of Commerce and CCC&TI's Small Business Center, that provide crucial resources, mentorship, and access to capital for our aspiring entrepreneurs. I will be a vocal advocate ensuring the county government is a partner, not a barrier, to their success.

3. Invest in a Skilled and Ready Workforce:
   
   

   • How I'll Help: Businesses need skilled workers, and our residents deserve pathways to well-paying careers. I will prioritize a strong partnership between the county and Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute (CCC&TI), ensuring county resources help bolster programs directly aligned with the needs of current and future employers, especially in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. As Commissioner, I will work to convene employers, CCC&TI, and the Caldwell County School system to strengthen apprenticeships, internships, and career pathways, ensuring our students are prepared for local, in-demand jobs.

4. Partner for Vibrant Downtowns and Commercial Centers:
   
   

   • How I'll Help: Thriving downtowns in Lenoir, Hudson, Granite Falls, and other commercial hubs are vital for community identity and economic activity. While revitalization efforts are often led by municipalities, I will ensure Caldwell County is an active and supportive partner. As Commissioner, I will advocate for county participation in infrastructure projects, support applications for grants that benefit these areas, and champion policies that encourage investment and mixed-use development, making our town centers attractive places to live, work, and visit.

By focusing on these key areas, fostering collaboration, and making strategic decisions, I believe that as your County Commissioner, I can play a vital role in building a more diverse, resilient, and prosperous economy for all of Caldwell County.