Northumberland EDC approves agenda and May minutes; pushes digital zoning map, tourism and workforce initiatives

The Northumberland County Economic Development Commission approved its meeting agenda and the minutes from May by voice vote during its June 17 meeting.

Commissioners spent the remainder of the meeting on project updates and planning. Members reported on an upcoming Business & Heritage Expo and a county golf‑tournament booth where the EDC will be colocated with Compass; both events will be staffed by commission members and used for outreach. Commissioners said turnout for the Saturday expo is smaller than hoped but viewed the event as a start.

Workforce development remained a central theme after the earlier presentation by Keenan Allen. Commissioners discussed aligning employer needs with training providers, developing tours and internships, and recruiting employers to take part in pilot convenings. Several commissioners noted that employers must offer competitive pay to retain trainees, citing recent large employers’ wages as a factor in recruitment.

Commissioners highlighted two near‑term county initiatives: (1) an effort to produce a public, digital zoning map so prospective businesses can more easily identify available parcels and (2) analysis and grant‑application work to pursue tourism grants (including grants discussed in local notices and a Northern Neck funding opportunity). The commission said it will press the board of supervisors for deadlines on the digital map and will coordinate with staff to identify grant opportunities.

Staff reported the county comprehensive plan drafting is concluding and a public hearing is expected July 22; commissioners were told specific economic development recommendations and an interactive “pillars of community growth” survey will be included in the draft.

Procedural items: the chair called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. with a quorum (three of four commissioners present). The meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m.