C070901Closed Session — July 9, 2001, 6:00 p.m.
At 6:00 p.m. the Board adjourned to closed session to discuss matters relating to the
location of expansion of business in the area, pursuant to NCGS 143-318.11(a)(4).
Commissioners Kemp, Frye, Holmes, Davis and Mason were present, as well as County
Manager Frank Willis; Alice Dawson, Clerk to the Board; Cheryl Ivey, Deputy Clerk; Alan
Pugh, County Attorney; Aimee Scotton, Staff Attorney; and Bonnie Renfro from Randolph
County Economic Development Corporation.
Ms. Renfro told the Board that she had met recently with Frank Willis to update him on
the Thomas Built Bus Company project. They are still considering a 50 -acre site on Prospect St.
for their $50 Million, 300,000 sq. ft. expansion that should provide 400 jobs. They have a letter
of commitment from D.O.T. for improved road access and the City of Thomasville has agreed to
provide sewer but will require the company to apply for annexation. The company may request
other incentives including cash tied to tax costs. They are considering alternative sites in
Southern Virginia and Gaffney, South Carolina.
Ms. Renfro briefed the Board regarding Project Reliable, a fire protection equipment
manufacturing company, which could potentially provide the County with a $22 investment and
420 jobs. They are looking for a 20+ acre site for construction of a 150,000 sq. ft. facility
expandable to 250,000 sq. ft. within 3 years. They have visited the Liberty Business Park and
are considering Lot IA or Lots 5 and 6 at the rear of park. Ms. Renfro is also suggesting a 20+
acre site in West Randleman Business Park. She said that the company's initial visit was very
positive and they have followed up with additional information. She recommends offering 3
years of tax incentives and assistance with $350,000 site improvement expansion.
Next, Ms. Renfro told the Board about an automotive related company who is interested
in obtaining 60-200 acres for construction of a large distribution facility (2 million sq. ft.) and
could potentially provide a $50-$75 Million investment and 600-1000 high quality jobs for the
County. They are interested in the west side of Liberty Business Park and the southern half of
the South Liberty site. The company requires a rail spur track, extension of water and sewer to
the site, and industrial access from NC 49 and may require the construction of an on-site water
tower. The company has stated their intent to use unionized workers.
Finally, Ms. Renfro briefed the Board on a Japanese -owned auto parts producing
company who requires 130 acres for construction of a 600,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility.
This would be a $100 Million investment providing about 500 jobs. They are considering the
same site as the company proposing to use unionized workers. This company will require water
and sewer extension, natural gas extension and industrial access from NC 49.
On motion of Frye, seconded by Davis, the Board voted unanimously at 6:30 to adjourn
from closed session and resume regular session.
Phil Kemp, Chairman
Harold Holmes
Robert O. Mason
Darrell L. Frye, Vice Chairman
Robert B. Davis
Cheryl A. Ivey, Deputy Clerk to the Board