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FOCUS POINTS FOR NEAR FUTURE COUNTY EFFORTS <br />(To be adjusted based upon changing variables within our local economy.) <br />1. Adopt and monitor a business investment and job creation incentive grant <br />program targeted toward desired outcomes and supportive of local values. <br />2. Maintain an accurate system of measuring economic data used to determine if <br />economic development programs and policies are producing the desired impacts. <br />3. Implement an economic development corridor along Interstate 85 and Highway <br />70 seeking those business opportunities that locate near Interstate Highways. <br />Examples: distribution/warehouse operations, commercial/retail operations, <br />corporate office /operational centers, and light manufacturing operations where <br />truck traffic is facilitated by those locations. <br />4. Move forward with utility related infrastructure needs along the Interstate 85 and <br />Highway 70 corridor. (Water, sewer and communications technology to support <br />targeted business operations.) Pursue establishment of utility districts as a basic <br />method of financing some of the capital costs associated with these needs. <br />5. Seek professional assistance and partnerships with private developers willing to <br />invest in the development of speculative or build to suit office, commercial and <br />retail facilities along the Interstate 85.and Highway 70 corridor. <br />6. Support the new food processing center with marketing assistance and encourage <br />it successful transition to non -profit management status. <br />7. Expand partnerships with UNC for specific economic development research and <br />data management and advisory services that provide support for new industries <br />considering Orange County and existing businesses seeking to expand. <br />8. Remain open to collaborative relationships and interaction with the Towns and <br />Cities of Orange County. Partner when joint resources can be maximized. <br />9. Support and expand opportunities for Tourism related development where the <br />County and Towns can work together to increase visitor expenditures. <br />10. Ensure that the image of the County, its towns and cities is seen as supportive of <br />diverse and quality businesses interests that share common values. <br />11. Commit funding that remains available to ensure programs, policies and <br />comprehensive economic development are sustainable. <br />12. Reformulate a new economic development citizen advisory group based upon <br />recommendations brought forth by UNC and charge that group with tasks <br />that support planned activities. (Today's discussion.) <br />31 <br />