c070813 II (Project Feedback)Closed Session II (Project Feedback) July 8, 2013
At 7:23 p.m., the Board, already in closed session on another matter, began closed session on
a different matter relating to the location or expansion of business in the area, pursuant to NCGS
143-318.11(a)(4). Commissioners Holmes, Frye, Kemp, Lanier and Haywood were present. Also
present were County Manager Richard Wells; Will Massie, Assistant County Manager/Finance
Officer; Attorney Barron Thompson (standing in for County Attorney Ben Morgan); Aimee
Scotton, Associate County Attorney; Cheryl Ivey, Clerk to the Board; and Bonnie Renfro,
Randolph County EDC President.
Bonnie Renfro said that a North Carolina -based food processing company is considering the
purchase and renovation of the former Lucks facility and equipment in Seagrove in order to
relocate and expand their operation to produce a canned vegetable product. The building will
require repair and renovation and a cost estimate is under development. Potential investment is
projected at $3 - $5 million, with 10-35 new jobs. The company will use the production building
in phases and be fully operational within one year. They currently produce canned vegetable
products and sell to several regional and national grocery retail outlets. They also plan to
introduce additional products, including meat products. The company will seek to contract with
local and regional farmers and may consider a mini farm on the site.
Ms. Renfro said that the company will be eligible for a Building Reuse Grant from the NC
Rural Center to assist with repairs and renovations. They are also seeking workforce assistance
and training. The number of new employees will be between 10 - 35 over the initial phases of
expansion, and the company will offer healthcare to its employees.
Ms. Renfro said that Randolph County would be the applicant for the Building Reuse Grant,
which will require a 5% local match. She said that a decision would be needed at the August
meeting.
After discussion, Board members expressed great interest in this project in order to put an
existing vacant building back in use and to provide much needed jobs. They directed Ms. Renfro
to update the Board as soon as possible on this project.
Closed Session on this topic ended at 7:28 pm.
J. Harold Holmes, Chairman Darrell L. Frye
Phil Kemp
Arnold Lanier
Stan Haywood
Cheryl A. Ivey, Clerk to the Board