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Randolph County Economic Development asks for flat appropriation as it marks 40 years
Summary
Randolph County Economic Development presented its FY 2025–26 budget request of $351,950 — essentially flat from prior years — and reviewed recent project activity, including a new plant and site work, during the county budget public hearing.
Kevin Franklin, representing Randolph County Economic Development, briefed the Board of Commissioners on June 24 and requested a county appropriation of $351,950 for FY 2025–26 — a figure that is essentially flat from recent years once an accounting change for rent was netted out.
Franklin highlighted the organization's role in supporting existing industry, workforce development and site/product development across the county. He noted Crystal (staff) and a newly hired existing‑industry director, David Hirsey, had been active: the EDC reported two existing‑industry expansions in the fiscal year and one new company announcement, SB Precast, involving just under $10 million of investment and about 60 jobs at an average annual wage near $63,000.
Franklin said the EDC had shifted its funding mix over recent years from roughly 90% local-government support to the current mix of about 70% local-government and 30% private-sector investment, and that the office had invested in workforce‑attraction marketing and digital outreach to recruit talent to county employers.
Why it matters: economic development activity generates jobs and tax base that can help fund county services and nonprofit partners; the EDC's budget funds administration and program work that, according to Franklin, helps facilitate private investment.
Quotes and attributions "We appreciate the constant support and partnership of Randolph County and our municipalities," Franklin said, noting the EDC's 40th anniversary.
Next steps The EDC's budget hearing was opened and closed as required; commissioners will act on the county budget in subsequent meetings. Franklin invited commissioners to the EDC's annual meeting the following week to celebrate the agency's 40th anniversary.
Ending No formal action was taken on the EDC appropriation during the hearing; commissioners will consider the funding request within the broader county budget timetable.
