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EDC proposes small spec building at NC Rail & Commerce Park; commissioners ask for more study
Summary
Martin County EDC President Jason Semple asked the board to consider building a finished 10,000–50,000 sq. ft. spec facility at the NC Rail & Commerce Park with cost estimates between $1.03 million and $1.24 million; commissioners requested further research before committing county funds.
Martin County Economic Development President Jason Semple presented a proposal Jan. 8 to build a finished spec structure in the NC Rail & Commerce Park to meet rising demand for 10,000–50,000 square foot ready‑to‑occupy buildings.
Semple said the county’s share of proceeds from a prior Quick Start shell building sale returned $1,062,692.80 to the county as unrestricted funds, with additional restricted funds retained by the MCEDC. Construction cost estimates for a finished building ranged from $1,034,006 (without masonry/stucco) to $1,243,865 (with masonry/stucco); depending on the final design the county’s responsibility could range from roughly $300,000 to $500,000.
Commissioner Joe R. Ayers and Commissioner Elmo “Butch” Lilley said they saw potential in a smaller finished building as a lower‑risk investment than a larger shell building and noted local business support. Commissioner Ronnie Smith urged caution, pointing to vacant shell buildings across eastern North Carolina and asking staff to do due diligence. Semple said he would return with more detailed plans, likely at the February meeting.
The board did not take immediate action and requested additional research on site selection, market demand and financing options before committing county funds.
