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Winnsboro EDC adopts Business Retention & Expansion policy to support local businesses
Summary
The EDC adopted Resolution 2026-3 establishing a Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) policy and agreed to schedule a workshop to begin implementation; board members emphasized prioritizing existing businesses and repairing trust with merchants.
The Winnsboro Economic Development Corporation on Wednesday adopted Resolution 2026-3, creating a Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) policy and directing staff to organize an implementation workshop.
An EDC presenter said the BR&E program was developed with consultant support using prior fiscal-year funding and stakeholder interviews. The presenter said the goal is to stabilize existing businesses by restoring trust, reducing administrative friction and creating predictable, professional support, not just focusing on new business recruitment.
Board members recounted earlier Main Street efforts that had ‘fizzled’ and highlighted persistent trust gaps between local merchants and municipal programs. Several members argued the EDC, rather than the Main Street board, is the appropriate body to lead BR&E work in order to provide consistent outreach and avoid duplication.
A motion to adopt the resolution and implementation framework passed by voice vote. Staff said the next step is scheduling a half-day BR&E workshop to develop program details and solicit input from business owners. The board also confirmed the current slate of officers would remain in place for the near term.
