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Council approves $36,000 annual Verizon lease extension; consultant presents draft economic development plan
Summary
Council approved a Verizon water‑tower lease extension that will raise rent to $36,000/year with 3% annual increases; staff said the 10‑year value is about $460,000. Separately, TPMA presented a draft strategic economic development plan recommending a funded ED director, stronger regional partnerships, business retention outreach and town‑center activation.
The Harrisburg Town Council on Aug. 12 approved an amendment to the town’s lease with Verizon that adds two five‑year extension options and raises annual rent to $36,000 starting April 1, 2025, with 3% annual increases. Mallory (Finance/Staff) told council she negotiated the rate up from an initial calculation of about $32,254; she estimated total fiscal impact over 10 years at roughly $460,000. The amendment was reviewed by the town attorney and approved by voice vote.
Councilmember questions focused on local comparables and the costs Verizon would face to remove equipment. Staff said Verizon and other carriers frequently inquire about buying municipal leases and that negotiated terms vary by tower; $3,000 per month or similar amounts are common depending on tower attributes.
Later in the meeting, TPMA consultant Brett Weiler presented a high‑level draft of a 95‑page strategic economic development plan the firm prepared for the town. Key findings included sustained population growth, a highly educated resident base (about 50% with bachelor’s degrees), strong regional transportation assets (including proximity to Charlotte and I‑485), and a significant net commuter outflow (about 4,000 more people commute out of Harrisburg daily than commute in).
TPMA’s top recommendations include establishing a funded economic development position or department with a sustainable budget; strengthening coordination with regional economic‑development partners; instituting a formal business retention and expansion program to gather primary data and support local firms; creating a marketing/attraction strategy and site‑readiness inventory for targeted industry clusters; and expanding entrepreneurial supports and town‑center placemaking activities. The consultant offered to assist with hiring guidance and implementation steps.
What’s next: The draft plan will be available for public review for 30 days and is expected to return for final council approval at the Sept. 9 meeting. Staff will finalize the Verizon lease amendment paperwork as authorized by council.
