Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Economic Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commissioners approve incentive for Project Champion, citing 101 jobs and $28M investment
Summary
The Board unanimously approved a three‑year economic development incentive for "Project Champion," a proposed manufacturing operation expected to create 101 jobs with an average wage of $51,381 and a $28 million investment, contingent on meeting job and investment benchmarks.
The Cleveland County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a resolution authorizing an economic development incentive for "Project Champion," a prospective manufacturer that presented commitments to create 101 jobs with an average wage of $51,381 and invest $28,000,000 over three years. Economic Development Director Courtney Ashley presented the project and the proposed incentive schedule, which would provide a three‑year grant at 25% of the $0.405 tax rate on the new taxable investment, estimated at about $68,850 if benchmarks are met.
Chairman Kevin Gordon opened and closed the required public hearing; a legal notice for the hearing ran in the Shelby Star on April 24 and May 1, 2026. A resident, Cynitra Stewart, spoke in favor of the project. Commissioner Doug Bridges said he favored the opportunity to expand the county tax base and add higher‑paying jobs. The Board approved the resolution on a motion by Commissioner Bridges and a second from Commissioner Deb Hardin; the motion passed unanimously (four present, one absent). The incentive is contingent on the company meeting the presented investment and job-creation benchmarks.
