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December 20 2022

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By Tehan McMahon Appalachian State University

Dec 22, 2022

What do massage therapy and welding have in common? For most people, that question might be hard to answer, but for one Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute alumna, they happen to both be stops along the way to her current success.

Meredith Wilson earned a degree in massage therapy at CCC&TI and worked for more than a decade in the field. When she was ready for a change, she did a complete 180 and returned to CCC&TI to enroll in the Welding Technologies Associate Degree program. The move was inspired by a meeting with Gary Hudson, CCC&TI’s Welding Technologies Program director. With training in a high-demand field and what she describes as her “dream job,” Wilson now serves as an example to other adult learners who may be considering a career change or a return to the classroom.

“Meredith came into the welding program with the goal of making life better for herself,” Hudson said. “As a student she worked hard and put in the extra time when she struggled. Now that she has graduated, she is passing on the things that she learned to others. Through hard work and dedication, Meredith achieved her goal, and as a part of the welding program here at CCC&TI we couldn’t be happier to have helped her.”

While the decision to enroll in welding may have been years in the making, Wilson always knew that CCC&TI would be the key to a successful transition.

“I believe we have some of the best programs and instructors in the state,” Wilson said of CCC&TI, adding that her education seemed more comprehensive than what her peers had experienced elsewhere.

In her quest for a hands-on education that would provide her with a range of career opportunities, Wilson also enrolled in CCC&TI’s IMPACT program.

The IMPACT Institute provides the skills and certifications needed for an entry-level advanced manufacturing job, while making students eligible for scholarships to continue their education in one of several advanced manufacturing programs. It is free to students and was established to increase the number of qualified manufacturing workers in the area.

For Wilson, it was an opportunity to take her skills and employability further, but more importantly, provided help paying for her education and provided certifications that would boost her resume and making professional connections.

Among those connections were Rick Shew, the associate dean of Business and Career Services at CCC&TI, and Tim Wallace, instructor in Workforce Development, who encouraged Wilson to apply for a job at FleetGenius, a sustainable waste container company in Lenoir.

Wilson now works as the Talent Acquisition Liaison at FleetGenius, where she networks with local community colleges and high schools about the company’s apprenticeship program, using her own experience to help guide students to success in their chosen fields.

“As someone who worked full time while completing my degree, I understand the fantastic opportunity our apprenticeship program presents to students,” Wilson said. “Apprentices are offered flexible schedules, the ability to receive on-the-job training while being paid, and bonuses.”

When she isn’t promoting the apprenticeship program at FleetGenius, she’s assisting new hires in their safety training and ensuring they follow company expectations.

Wilson says what she loves most about her job is connecting with people “who are looking to make positive changes in their lives … I love being able to work with people and illuminate a path for them to achieve their goals.”

Her hope is to continue to grow with FleetGenius and spread awareness of the benefits the company offers. And Meredith will continue giving back to IMPACT and CCC&TI as well by encouraging others to further their education and pursue careers in advanced manufacturing.

Wilson’s advice for anyone who isn’t sure about attending college or returning as an adult is to just do it. Taking even a few classes each semester will open doors to endless possibilities, she said.

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December 20 2022

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Round two of CDBG-NR funding included 12 projects totaling $26.6 million with a maximum award of $5 million.  Among these is Granite Falls, the first recipient of the Rural Community Development Fund. The Town of granite Falls in Caldwell County NC has been awarded $4,999,000.

The CDBG program is a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) program administered in part by N.C. Commerce Rural Economic Development Division. CDBG funds are awarded to enhance the vitality of communities by providing adequate housing, suitable living environments, infrastructure development, and expanding economic opportunities. The State must ensure that at least 70 percent of its CDBG grant funds are used for activities and projects that serve households of low- and moderate-income.

Visit the N.C. Commerce’s Rural Economic Development Division webpage for more information.

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December 16 2022

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By NEWS-TOPIC STAFF

Dec 14, 2022

LENOIR — The city of Lenoir will reap the benefits of the Rural Transformation Grant Fund, which supports downtown revitalization.

Gov. Roy Cooper announced Wednesday (Dec. 14) that 42 local governments in rural areas across the state have been awarded grants from the Rural Transformation Grant Fund, supporting rural economic development projects in North Carolina.

Lenoir is scheduled to receive $580,000 that will support much-needed upgrades and improvements to the Historic Lenoir High School Theater/Auditorium and Gymnasium in Lenoir. The anticipated outcome is an immediate increase in use and community engagement at these two event venues and the creation of an economic engine for the downtown district.

A total of $19.76 million will be issued in this second round of grantmaking from the Fund, which helps local governments overcome challenges that limit their economic competitiveness. The funding comes from the American Rescue Plan, signed by President Joe Biden last year. The North Carolina Department of Commerce and its Rural Economic Development Division administers the fund.

“More support for North Carolina’s rural communities is on the way with these transformative grants, made possible by President Biden’s American Rescue Plan,” said Cooper. “These funds, backed up by the expertise of our rural development team at the Department of Commerce, will bring more economic opportunity to people across the state.”

The Rural Transformation Grant Fund, the centerpiece of a broader Rural Engagement and Investment Program from Commerce, addresses a wide variety of needs, from revitalizing downtown districts, building the capacity of local government staffs, revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering small business recovery, and generally supporting economic growth initiatives.

The Rural Transformation Grant Fund awarded grants in four categories today:

• The Downtown Revitalization category supports downtown development initiatives that help grow and leverage a community’s commercial core into an asset for economic growth and prosperity.
• The Resilient Neighborhoods category offers grants focused on community development and quality of life improvements, such as eliminating food deserts, creating healthy living initiatives, and increasing access to affordable housing options, among other initiatives.
• The Community Enhancements for Economic Growth category provides grants to local governments to smooth the way for economic development opportunities, such as the acquisition of land and buildings, the preparation of business sites, and the removal of structural and physical barriers that may be limiting development.
• The Rural Community Capacity Building (RC2) category provides educational and professional development opportunities for local government staffs, with the additional ability for local governments to then ‘apply what they’ve learned’ by developing funding proposals for projects in their local areas.

“Extensive preparation and planning are the key ingredients for economic development success,” said North Carolina Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders. “I’m pleased to see this second round of grants go out to help our rural communities reach the next level of growth.”

Local governments awarded project grants from the Rural Transformation Grant Fund include:

Downtown Revitalization Category

• Bertie County $200,000
• City of Conover $640,000
• City of Elizabeth City $641,000
• City of Laurinburg $650,000
• City of Lenoir $580,000
• City of Rocky Mount $800,000
• City of Shelby $750,000
• Town of Bryson City $600,000
• Town of Carthage $350,000
• Town of China Grove $680,000
• Town of Elkin $800,000
• Town of Hertford $725,000
• Town of Marshville $200,000
• Town of Maysville $850,000
• Town of Murphy $665,000
• Town of Nashville $675,000
• Town of Plymouth $725,000
• Town of Richlands $330,000
• Town of Roseboro $825,000
• Town of Spindale $395,000
• Town of Spring Hope $800,000

Resilient Neighborhoods Category

• Town of East Spencer $580,000
• Town of Rosman $450,000
• Town of Saratoga $300,000
• Town of Seven Springs $400,000
• Town of Vass $650,000

Community Enhancements Category

• Cherokee County $550,000
• City of Marion $450,000
• Clay County $850,000
• Franklin County $450,000
• Hertford County $725,000
• Town of Bladenboro $325,000
• Town of Louisburg $450,000
• Town of St. Pauls $150,000

And for the Rural Community Capacity (RC2) category, the following jurisdictions have been awarded $49,999 each:

• City of Archdale
• Hertford County
• Town of Garysburg
• Town of Jonesville
• Town of Liberty
• Town of Mars Hill
• Town of Maysville
• Town of Pilot Mountain
• Town of Rosman
• Town of Spruce Pine
• Town of Wilson’s Mills

“Following the best practices that we know work well, these economic development grants will bring new vitality to many rural communities,” said Kenny Flowers, the Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Rural Economic Development. “I look forward to working with these communities as we work to transform the economy in rural North Carolina.”

A third window for grant applications is expected to open in the spring of 2023. More information about the Rural Transformation Grant Fund is available at nccommerce.com/transform.

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December 16 2022

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By CADY DAVIS CDAVIS@NEWSTOPICNEWS.COM

Dec 15, 2022

HUDSON — Residents of the town of Hudson will no longer have to drive all the way to Granite Falls or beyond to enjoy a hot fast-food meal from McDonald’s, as a new location has opened on Mt. Herman Road.

On Thursday, Dec. 15, right before the morning breakfast rush, McDonald’s owners and staff, along with the Caldwell Chamber of Commerce, Hudson Mayor Janet Winkler, the Hudson Police Department, and members of the Hudson community gathered at the new McDonald’s at 301 Mt. Herman Road to celebrate the fast-food restaurant’s grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

The South Caldwell High School marching band, under the direction of Jason Childers, began the ceremony with a rousing performance.

Afterwards, Christine Nevant, the owner of the new Hudson McDonald’s and the McDonald’s in Granite Falls, presented the South Caldwell students with a check for $500.

“You’ve made our grand opening very special,” she said. “We are so excited to serve the community.”

Next, Hudson Mayor Janet Winkler addressed the crowd, saying she was “thrilled” to see the town of Hudson get its own McDonald’s.

“I’ve told everybody that ‘Hudson has now arrived,” Winkler said, and the crowd cheered.

“We’re super excited to have a McDonald’s in Hudson and another McDonald’s in Caldwell County,” said Ashley Bolick, director of the Economic Development Commission.

“We’re excited to see all the great success you guys will have here.”

Nevant has been a McDonald’s restaurant operator for just over 10 years, following in her family’s footsteps. Her brother owns 43 restaurants in the West Virginia/Pittsburgh area. Nevant herself now owns 12 restaurants in Caldwell County, Hickory, and Asheville.

“[My husband] Chris and I take a lot of pride in offering jobs to this community, and also offering great food at a great value,” Nevant said. “We’re thrilled to be a part of Hudson. So far, we’ve been so impressed with everybody.”

Nevant said she is proud to be part of a business that provides wonderful opportunities for employees, including a $2,500 tuition assistance program for students.

“I just love this brand and I love what it does,” she said. “I believe in McDonald’s and what they do for their people, what they provide for their communities.”

Sixty-five% of Nevant’s workforce are women.

“It isn’t that I just choose to hire women, but I love to give them that opportunity because I think about what McDonald’s has done for me,” she said. “I think it’s so important to be a great role model to anyone who works with you … It’s a great support system.”

Nevant is also passionate about giving back to the community who supports her business endeavors.

“In every one of my locations, we support the neighboring restaurants. We do a lot of bringing in catered food, and I try to find the smaller, family-owned restaurants that could use a bump. We give all of our business to that … I give to all of the churches, and I give to all of the schools. I’m very philanthropic but I am able to do that because the community is very supportive of me.”

The new McDonald’s in Hudson is currently seeking talented individuals to join the team. Employees receive benefits such as free meals, paid time off and vacations, and health insurance. Members of upper-level management are also offered 401K options.

“McDonald’s provides a lot of great things for people,” Nevant said. “The stronger your upper-level management is, the better your business will be.”

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December 14 2022

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BY NEWS-TOPIC STAFF

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute is now registering for several upcoming continuing education and workforce training courses. Following is a schedule:

Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) Fall Academy

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute’s Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) Spring 2023 Academy is taking applications until 12 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 22. The class meets Jan. 5 through May 12. Class meeting days and times vary. Scholarships are available for students who qualify. To apply for CCC&TI’s Basic Law Enforcement Training program, please contact Program Director Andy Day at aday@cccti.edu or call 828-726-2750.

BioWork Process Technician

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute will offer the BioWork Process Technician course Mondays and Wednesdays, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., from Feb. 6 to April 24 on the Caldwell Campus in Hudson. The course will combine classroom lecture and online instruction. The total cost for the course is $262, which includes textbook. The BioWork Process Technician course provides basic preparation for process technician jobs in bioprocess manufacturing, pharmaceutical manufacturing and chemical manufacturing. The course will include understanding the role of a process technician, safety, quality processes, measuring process variables, transforming matter, process technology (including processing equipment and plant utilities), controlling the process, maintaining sterile processes and growing living cells. For more information or to reserve a seat for the BioWork Process Technician course, please call 828-726-2242.

EMT-Basic

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute will offer three Emergency Medical Technician – Basic courses in early 2023. The 200-hour course trains individuals to provide basic emergency medical care in the prehospital setting. The scheduled courses include: Jan. 9 to May 13, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays on the Watauga Campus; Jan. 9 to May 8, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, at the TAPS Center in Hudson; and Jan. 10 to May 13, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, at the TAPS Center in Hudson. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2242.

HVAC I – Caldwell Campus

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute’s Caldwell Campus will offer Introduction to HVAC on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Jan. 10 through April 20 in J-232. This course serves as the entry-level requirement for all other courses in the HVAC program. The curriculum focuses on basic carbon steel piping practices, basic copper and plastic piping practices, basic electricity, intro to heating, cooling, and air distribution systems, soldering and brazing and trade mathematics. The cost of the class is $190. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2242.

HVAC I – Watauga Campus

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute’s Watauga Campus will offer Introduction to HVAC on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Jan. 10 through April 20 in W141, Room 101. This course serves as the entry-level requirement for all other courses in the HVAC program. The curriculum focuses on basic carbon steel piping practices, basic copper and plastic piping practices, basic electricity, intro to heating, cooling, and air distribution systems, soldering and brazing and trade mathematics. The cost of the class is $190. For more information or to register, call 828-297-3811.

Intro to Residential Wiring – Caldwell Campus

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute’s Caldwell Campus will offer Introduction to Residential Wiring on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Jan. 10 to April 20 in J-220. The course introduces the electrical trade, electrical circuits, theory and safety, conductors and cable, device boxes, hand bending and residential electrical services. Students will learn basic electrical wiring concepts, electrical theory, Ohm’s law and types of services for residential applications. The cost of the class is $190. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2242.

Furniture Technology Institute: Industrial Sewing

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute’s Furniture Technology Institute will offer Intro to Industrial Sewing on Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., from Jan. 9 to April 5 in J-121 on the Caldwell Campus. Introduction to Industrial Sewing is designed to train students in the manufacturing concepts, tools, safety and the communication skills that will help prepare them for a career in various manufacturing settings. Emphasis is placed on machine operation, setup and maintenance, threading, sewing straight lines, corners, curves and welts. Upon completion, students should be able to set up and operate a variety of industrial sewing machines. The cost of the class is $182. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2242.

Furniture Technology Institute: Industrial Sewing

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute’s Furniture Technology Institute will offer Intro to Industrial Sewing on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., from Jan. 10 to April 4 in J-121 on the Caldwell Campus. Introduction to Industrial Sewing is designed to train students in the manufacturing concepts, tools, safety and the communication skills that will help prepare them for a career as a sewer in various manufacturing settings. Emphasis is placed on machine operation, setup and maintenance, threading, sewing straight lines, corners, curves and welts. Upon completion, students should be able to set up and operate a variety of industrial sewing machines. The cost of the class is $182. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2242.

Plumbing I – Caldwell Campus

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute’s Caldwell Campus will offer Introduction to Plumbing (Level 1) from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays, Jan. 9 through April 19 in J-220. The class serves as the entry-level requirement for all other courses in the plumbing program. This course introduces basic plumbing tools, materials and fixtures. Topics include plumbing materials, different types of fixtures, proper tool selection and basic plumbing systems. The cost of the class is $190. Scholarships are available. For more info or to register, call 828-726-2242.

Plumbing I – Watauga Campus

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute’s Watauga Campus will offer Introduction to Plumbing (Level 1) from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays, Jan. 9 through April 24 in W141, Room 101. The class serves as the entry-level requirement for all other courses in the plumbing program. This course introduces basic plumbing tools, materials and fixtures. Topics include plumbing materials, different types of fixtures, proper tool selection and basic plumbing systems. The cost of the class is $190. Scholarships are available. For more info or to register, call 828-297-3811.

Phlebotomy – Caldwell Campus

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute will offer a Phlebotomy course on the Caldwell Campus in Hudson on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., from Jan. 9 to May 3. The cost of the class is $203. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2242.

Phlebotomy – Caldwell Campus

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute will offer a Phlebotomy course on the Caldwell Campus in Hudson on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., from Jan. 10 to April 27. The cost of the class is $203. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2242.

Industrial Maintenance I

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute’s Caldwell Campus will offer Intro to Industrial Maintenance on Mondays and Wednesdays from Jan. 9 to April 19 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., in S-103. This course is designed to provide students with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair equipment found in a variety of industries. Designed for the “jack-of-all trades” technician, this course covers all five major areas of industrial maintenance knowledge: Electrical Maintenance, General Maintenance, Mechanical Maintenance, Preventative Maintenance and Welding. The cost of the class is $182. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2242.

Furniture Technology Institute: Intro to Upholstery

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute’s Furniture Technology Institute will offer Introduction to Upholstery on Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., from Jan. 9 to April 5 in J-118 on the Caldwell Campus. The course is designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary to become an entry-level upholsterer. In addition, students will learn the soft skills needed for employment. The course includes core skills, training in upholstery manufacturing concepts, tools and safety and training in employability skills, communication, problem solving and critical thinking. The cost of the class is $182. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2242.

Mental Healthcare Technician

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute will offer an online Mental Healthcare Technician course from Jan. 9 to March 24. This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills for safe, therapeutic care to patients with mental and behavioral health needs in an effective and ethical manner. Upon completion of the program, students will be prepared to take the American Association of Psychiatric Technicians (AAPT) Level 1 certification exam and qualify for entry-level positions within the special mental/behavioral healthcare programs. The course covers topics such as patient rights and documentation, trust and communication in health care, safety in the workplace, common psychiatric disorders, and chemical dependency and its effects. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2242.

MIG Welding – Caldwell Campus

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute will offer a MIG Welding class on the Caldwell Campus in Hudson on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. from Jan. 9 to May 8. The cost of the class is $182. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2242.

TIG Welding – Caldwell Campus

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute will offer a TIG Welding class on the Caldwell Campus in Hudson on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. from Jan. 10 to May 4. The cost of the class is $182. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2242.

MIG/TIG Welding – Watauga High School

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute will offer a MIG/TIG Welding class at Watauga High School in Boone on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. from Jan. 10 to May 4. The cost of the class is $182. For more information or to register, call 828-297-3811.

Mental Health First Aid

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute will offer a Mental Health First Aid course Wednesday, Jan. 18 and Wednesday, Jan. 25 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on the Caldwell Campus in Hudson. This training will help participants learn to recognize and intervene during a mental health emergency. It is excellent training for human resources professionals, medical professionals, business staff, faith community leaders, law enforcement personnel and educators. The cost of the class is $92 and includes textbook. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2242.

General Contractor Exam Prep

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute will offer a General Contractor Exam Prep class from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., on Tuesdays and Thursdays from Feb. 7 to April 13 in H-207 on the Caldwell Campus in Hudson. This 60-hour course prepares students for the General Contractor’s licensing examination. Emphasis is placed on blueprints, laws and regulations, employment security laws and workers’ compensation. Upon successful completion of the course, students are eligible to sit for the N.C. Contractor’s licensing examination. For more information on this course or to register, call 828-726-2242.

Massage Therapy – Watauga Campus

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute will offer a Massage Therapy course from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday from June 7 to Dec. 20 on the Watauga Campus in Boone. This course is designed to prepare students for the certification examination required for the North Carolina licensure application process. The course will include anatomy and physiology, multiple massage styles, multiple therapy styles, ethics, North Carolina laws and regulations and wellness and self-care. Students who successfully complete this massage therapy training will receive three points toward competitive admission into the Physical Therapist Assistant program at CCC&TI. For more information or to register, call 828-726-2341.

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December 8 2022

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By NEWS-TOPIC STAFF

Dec 7, 2022

LENOIR — When starting a new business, one of the greatest challenges is having the right recipe for success. For Happy Valley Filling Station, that recipe includes locally-sourced organic ingredients, a fun atmosphere and assistance from the Small Business Center (SBC) at Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute.

The Happy Valley Filling Station, located a few minutes off U.S. Highway 321 in Caldwell County’s scenic Happy Valley, opened in September 2021. After its grand opening, the Small Business Center helped the owners, Jesse Plaster and Angela Postigo, navigate a bumpy start for the popular pizzeria and brewery.

The successful partnership was recently recognized at the state level with a Centers of Excellence Award during the Small Business Center Network’s Professional Development Conference in Asheville on Nov. 17.

CCC&TI SBC Director Carmela Tomlinson won the “Business Success Story — Overcoming Challenges” award for her support of Happy Valley Filling Station through the SBC. The award recognizes a Small Business Center director who overcame difficult challenges that resulted in a success story.

“I was thrilled when our name was called as the award recipient,” Tomlinson said. “It was a proud moment to be recognized among all 58 Small Business Centers in the state.”

According to the award nomination, the owners bought the property for the business to keep it from getting scooped up by a big box competitor and decided to open a gathering spot where neighbors could come together and enjoy good food and beverages. However, the path to smooth operations got bumpy when one of the partners the owners brought in was unable to perform all the required duties, and the owners had to step in to keep the business operating, while working through the partnership issues and legal details. Throughout it all, the Small Business Center was there to provide helpful guidance and support and will continue to assist the business to ensure operational improvements that will help it remain a community favorite and successful business.

The award is a good reminder of the wealth of resources available to the community through the college, CCC&TI President Dr. Mark Poarch said.

“We’re so proud of the behind-the-scenes work that Carmela does in the communities we serve,” Poarch said. “Not only is she helping encourage entrepreneurship and economic growth through providing vital services to new businesses, but she’s also helping with the retention and growth of jobs for our existing employers.”

Serving both Caldwell and Watauga counties, CCC&TI’s Small Business Center is part of a statewide network of 58 Small Business Centers that support the development of new businesses and the growth of existing businesses by being a community-based provider of training, counseling, and resource information. Its services are free of charge and are offered both online and in-person at the HUB Station, 143 Cedar Valley Rd., Hudson.

For more information about CCC&TI’s Small Business Center, please visit https://www.cccti.edu/SmallBusiness or call 828-726-3065.

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December 5 2022

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By CADY DAVIS CDAVIS@NEWSTOPICNEWS.COM

Dec 2, 2022 Updated Dec 2, 2022

CALDWELL COUNTY — A new report shows that Caldwell County continues to improve its financial situation as it moves out of a Tier 1 designation (most economically distressed) to Tier 2.

The North Carolina Department of Commerce released the county tier designations for 2023 on Wednesday, Nov. 30. The designations, which are mandated by state law, play a role in several programs that assist in economic development.

“The EDC has worked persistently and diligently over the last decade to diversify and grow our local economy,” said Deborah Murray, executive director of the Caldwell County Economic Development Commission. “Good work and hard work produces long term and sustaining growth. We have seen this in the numbers produced over these last few years. Both the recent announcements for Tier designation and average private sector wages evidence this.”

The 2023 rankings comply with the methodology prescribed by the North Carolina General Assembly in General Statue §143B-437.08, which identifies four economic factors to be compiled and calculated by N.C. Commerce and then used to analyze and rank each of North Carolina’s 100 counties. Each county is then assigned its tier designation ranking from one to three. Tier 1 counties are generally the most economically distressed and Tier 3 counties are generally the least economically distressed.

“Tier 1 counties, because they are the most economically distressed, receive the maximum dollars available for state incentives. Tier 2 counties may occasionally receive less but this in no way will affect any current grants or incentives we have,” Murray said. “We have moved to Tier 2 but will continue to be able to apply for state incentives when they are appropriate.”

Tier rankings are based on four measurements: adjusted property tax base per capita for the most recent fiscal year (FY 2021-2022); percentage growth in population for the most recent 36 months (July 2017 through July 2020); median household income for the most recent 12 months for which data is available (2019 U.S. Census Small Area Income & Poverty Estimates); and average unemployment rate for the most recent 12 months (October 2020 to September 2021).

State law calls for 40 counties to be designated as Tier 1, 40 counties to be designated as Tier 2, and 20 counties to be designated Tier 3.

For 2023, the North Carolina Department of Commerce reported that Caldwell County is shifting from Tier 1 to Tier 2. The county’s economic distress rank is #42 (compared to #37 in 2022).

According to Murray, unemployment has been key to Caldwell’s comeback since the Great Recession and the pandemic. Caldwell posted an annual 3.6% unemployment rate, which moved the ranking from #38 last year to #54 this year.

Murray also said that Caldwell County continued to show anticipated gains in three categories. The county ranked 45 out of 100 counties with a $101,659 adjusted property tax base per capita and a very strong 16.15% year over year growth. Over the last eight years, Caldwell has seen 43% growth.

Population growth has been slow to take hold in Caldwell County, but the county managed to document 0.24% growth year over year, ranking #41 in this category.

Median household income is a significant reason for Caldwell’s growth, showing a 15.94% year over year growth. Since 2014, Caldwell residents have seen a 44% growth in median household income.

Additionally, the 2023 North Carolina Private Sector Average Wage Report was recently released. Produced by the N.C. Department of Commerce, Labor and Economic Analysis Division, the report ranks all 100 of North Carolina’s counties by annualized average wages using the most recent four quarters (Q3 2021 through Q2 2022). The report is based on what county employers pay without regard for where employees may live.

Caldwell County employers posted record wages again in the 2023 Report. The new average wage for Caldwell County is $48,482. This represents a one year increase of 10.4%. In comparison, Catawba posted a new average wage of $52,172, an 8.6% year over year increase. Burke County posted a new average wage of $43,261, a 9.52% annual increase.

Since 2015, Caldwell has increased its average wage by $16,473 per wage earner, totaling 51.5% wage growth over eight years. During the same period of time, Catawba has increased its average wage by $15,426 and Burke has increased its average wage by $10,328.

Caldwell moved from 28th highest to 20th highest average private sector wage in this year’s rankings. The state’s highest average wages were in Durham County with $86,686, followed by Mecklenburg with $80,349, and Wake with $72,743. Other counties in the top 20 were Iredell with $64,433, Catawba with $52,172, Buncombe with $51,080, and Lincoln with $49,332.

Other counties moving to a less distressed tier ranking include Avery (Tier 3), Cleveland (Tier 2), Pasquotank (Tier 2), and Swain (Tier 2). Counties moving to a more distressed tier ranking include Onslow (Tier 1), Pitt (Tier 1), Randolph (Tier 1), Surry (Tier 1), and Transylvania (Tier 2).

Tier designations determine eligibility and guidelines for several different grant programs that N.C. Commerce administers including the One North Carolina Fund, building reuse, and water and sewer infrastructure grants among others. Tier designations also play a role in the state’s performance-based Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) program, serving as a mechanism to channel funds for infrastructure improvements into more economically distressed areas of the state.

“We most frequently use building reuse grants which do take tier rankings into consideration,” said Murray. “In this case, the average wage is more significant. Reuse grants are very competitive and are awarded based on companies who pledge wages at or above the county’s average wage for the year. As our wages increase, it does become more challenging for companies to pledge significant numbers of jobs at these wages. At the same time, the types of companies we have recruited and expanded have consistently raised our wages which benefits us all. At the end of the day, significant and improved opportunity and quality of life in Caldwell result.”

For more information about the tier designation system, visit nccommerce.com/grants-incentives/county-distress-rankings-tiers.

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December 2 2022

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By NEWS-TOPIC STAFF

Dec 1, 2022

ROCKY MOUNT — Caldwell was one of nine counties to benefit from a Golden LEAF Foundation award Thursday, Dec. 1.

The Golden LEAF Foundation Board of Directors awarded $5.8 million in funding for 10 projects through the Golden LEAF SITE Program in Caldwell, Duplin, Forsyth, Nash, Randolph, Rockingham, Sampson, Stanly, and Warren counties.

SITE Program — Identification provides assistance to a community from a firm contracted by Golden LEAF to help identify potential industrial sites in the community. Warren County was selected to receive assistance through this phase.

In the SITE Program — Due Diligence phase, the Golden LEAF Board awarded $25,500 in funding to the Greater Winston-Salem Development Corp. for the Tanglewood Business Park and $50,000 in funding to Caldwell County for the Evergreene Industrial Park. These projects will use funding to complete eligible due diligence activities such as environmental assessments, archaeological analyses, and mapping.

For the SITE Program — Development, the Golden LEAF Board awarded $5,775,802 in funding for seven projects that will provide public infrastructure and, for publicly owned sites, clearing and rough grading, to benefit sites that have completed the due diligence necessary to demonstrate that the site is suitable for development.

Additionally, the Golden LEAF Board awarded two projects totaling $700,000 in Open Grants Program funding. These projects will support agriculture and workforce preparedness in Ashe and Catawba counties.

• $500,000 to Ashe County to support construction costs for a multi-purpose agricultural center that will provide a space for area cattle farmers to aggregate and market their livestock locally in a manner that would attract large buyers and increase opportunities to gain premium pricing.
• $200,000 to Catawba Valley Community College for two years of start-up funding to partially fund four of seven new positions for the Manufacturing Solutions Center II an economic development and job creation initiative focused on best practices in fabric development, new textile personal protective equipment, and expanded testing and prototyping.

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December 1 2022

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Caldwell County continues record wage growth

The 2023 North Carolina Private Sector Average Wage Report was released earlier today.  Produced by the NC Department of Commerce, Labor and Economic Analysis Division, the report ranks all 100 of North Carolina’s counties by annualized average wages  using the most recent four quarters (Q3 2021 through Q2 2022).  The report is based on what county employers pay without regard for where employees may live.

Caldwell County employers posted record wages again in the 2023 Report. The new average wage for Caldwell County is $48,482.  This represents a one year increase of 10.4%.  In comparison, Catawba posted a new average wage of $52,172, an 8.6% year over year increase.  Burke County posted a new average wage of $43,261, a 9.52% annual increase.

Since 2015 Caldwell has increased its average wage by $16,473 per wage earner, totaling 51.5% wage growth over eight years.  During the same period of time, Catawba has increased its average wage by $15,426 and Burke has increased its average wage by $10,328.

Caldwell moved from 28th highest to 20th highest average private sector wage in this year’s rankings.  The state’s highest average wages were in Durham County with $86,686,  followed by Mecklenberg with $80,349, and Wake with $72,743.  Other counties in the top twenty were Iredell with $64,433, Catawba with $52,172, Buncombe with $51,080, and Lincoln with $49,332

The 2023 NC Average Private Sector Wage Report can be found at:

http://www.caldwelledc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/County-Average-Wages-2023_asPublished_120122.pdf

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December 1 2022

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Deborah Murray

Executive Director Caldwell County EDC

The 2023 North Carolina Tier Designations were released Wednesday by the NC Department of Commerce.  Ten of North Carolina’s 100 counties changed rankings.  Caldwell County moved from Tier 1 to Tier 2.  Caldwell County’s overall ranking was 42.

Caldwell County continued to show anticipated gains in three categories.  The county ranked 45 out of 100 counties with a $101,659 Adjusted Property Tax Base Per Capita. Caldwell showed a very strong 16.15 % year over year growth.  The county showed 43% growth over the last eight years (since 2014).

Population growth has been slow to take hold in Caldwell County, but the county managed to document 0.24 % growth year over year.  The county ranked 41st in this category.

Median Household income is a significant reason for Caldwell’s growth showing a 15.94% year over year growth.  Since 2014 Caldwell residents have seen a 44% growth in median household income.

Unemployment has been key to Caldwell’s comeback since the Great Recession and the pandemic.  Caldwell posted an annual 3.6% unemployment rate ranking 54 in the Tier rankings for 2023.

Designations are based on four rankings for each county with the total score classifying each county as a Tier 1 (the forty most economically distressed counties), Tier 2 (the next 40 less economically distressed counties or Tier 3 (the state’s 20 least economically distressed counties).

Tier Rankings are based on four measurements:  Adjusted Property Tax Base per Capita for the most recent fiscal year (FY 2021-2022); Percentage Growth in Population for the most recent 36 months (July 2017 through July 2020); Median Household Income for the most recent twelve months for which data is available (2019 US Census Small Area Income & Poverty Estimates); and Average Unemployment rate for the most recent twelve months (October 2020 to September 2021).