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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda 05-29-2025; 7 - Economic Development Advisory Board – Appointments Discussion 1 ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: May 29, 2025 Action Agenda Item No. 7 SUBJECT: Economic Development Advisory Board — Appointments Discussion DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: Recommendations Clerk's Office, 919-245-2125 Member and Applicant Summary Sheet Applications of Persons Recommended Applications of Other Applicants Membership Roster Applicant Interest List Annual Work Plan PURPOSE: To discuss appointments to the Economic Development Advisory Board. BACKGROUND: The Economic Development Advisory Board works cohesively with the County's Economic Development staff and other economic development partners to position Orange County as a competitive location for business opportunities. The Board of County Commissioners appoints all ten (10) members, with representatives from various fields. The following individuals are recommended for Board consideration: NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE TERM Dr. Ivy Taylor UNC Chapel Hill First Full Term 06/30/2028 Sharon Hill Core Business Core Business 06/30/2028 Community Camilla Core Business Core Business 06/30/2028 Hargett Community Community If the individuals listed above are appointed, no vacancies remain. FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item. ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports: 2 • GUIDING PRINCIPLE — INCLUSIVITY AND ENGAGEMENT We foster an environment in which all are welcomed, represented, and empowered to participate in and feel connected to their community. • GUIDING PRINCIPLE — DEDICATION AND RESPECT We commit to our roles in public service and organizational excellence by fostering the skills, talents, and innovation of our residents, employees, volunteers, and boards needed to carry out this work. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss appointments to the Economic Development Advisory Board. 3 ORANGE COUNTY EcONOMlc DEVELOPMENT NORTH CAROLINA 131 W. Margaret Lane, Suite 205 Hillsborough, NC 27278 MEMORANDUM To: Orange County Board of Commissioners cc: Orange County Manager Travis Myren Subject: Request for 3 Appointments to the Economic Development Advisory Board From: Steve Brantley, Director, Orange County Economic Development Dear Commissioners, On behalf of the Chair of the Orange County Economic Development Advisory Board, I am presenting our advisory board's consensus and request that the Board of Commissioners make the following recommended appointments for 3 upcoming vacancies, effective July Pt Economic Development's Advisory Board will lose 3 current members with terms expiring on June 30th: Kristen Smith Young(who fills the advisory board's single position reserved for a "UNC Chapel Hill"representative), along with Tom Proctor and Hasan Abdullah (who serve on the advisory board's designated"Core Business" seats). With these members' departures, the Economic Development office will lose the experience of 2 members who have served for several years on our subcommittee that reviews and scores applications to our Department's Article 46-funded"Small Business Grant"program. The 3 endorsed new advisory board applicants for your consideration, among all candidates, are as follows: • Dr. Ivey Taylor (to fill the board's 1 upcoming vacant"UNC Chapel Hill"position) Professor, Practice in Public Leadership, UNC School of Government • Sharon Hill(to fill 1 of the board's 2 upcoming vacant"Core Business"positions) Owner of the business etiquette & equity training firm Sharon Hill International She is a former advisory board member and has extensive experience serving on Orange County's "Small Business Grant"program's subcommittee to review grant applications. • Camila Hargett (to fill 1 of the board's 2 upcoming vacant"Core Business"positions) Business intelligence consultant with the firm Sezhel Consulting 4 I have attached an Excel spreadsheet that summarizes these 3 recommended candidates' backgrounds, as copied from their formal County advisory board applications. On behalf of the Economic Development Advisory Board and Department staff, thank you for your consideration of this endorsement. Regards, Steve Brantley, Director Orange County Economic Development 131 W. Margaret Lane, Suite 205 Hillsborough,NC 27278 Office Tel# (919) 245-2326 sbrantley(a,oran eg countync.gov ORANGE COUNTY NOR7FH CAROLINA www.growinorangenc.com 5 Economic Development Advisory Board Members and Applicants Name Member or Applicant? Gender Identity Race/Ethnic Background Age Range Township Also Serves on Lisa Kaylie Member Female White 35-59 Chapel Hill Elise Tyler Member Female White 18-34 Hillsborough Kristen Smith Young Member Female White Chapel Hill Joy Mercer Member Female White 60+ Bingham Board of Equalization and Review Jane Saiers Member Female White 35-59 Chapel Hill Agricultural Preservation Board Emilee Collins Member Female White 35-59 Cedar Grove John Kim Member Male Asian American 35-59 Chapel Hill W Estella Johnson Member Female African American 60+ Hillsborough Hasan A.Abdullah Member Male Other 35-59 Chapel Hill Affordable Housing Advisory Board Tom Proctor Member Male White 60+ Chapel Hill Dave Gephart Applicant Male White 60+ Eno Camilla Hargett Applicant Female Hispanic 35-59 Eno Sharon Hill Applicant Female African American 60+ Chapel Hill Saru Salvi Applicant Female African American 60+ Hillsborough Board of Equalization and Review Ivy Taylor jApplicant Female African American 35-59 Non-Resident 6 Page 1 of 2 Ivy Taylor Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Dr. Ivy Taylor Name Called: Home Address: 753 Davenbury Way Cary NC 27513 Phone: 919-445-1351 Email: irtaylor@sog.unc.edu Year of OC Residence: 2024 Township of Residence: Non-Resident Zone of Residence: Non-Resident Gender Identity: Female Ethnic Background: African American Age Range: 35-59 Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: Triangle Park Chapter of the Links, Inc. Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: None Boards/Commissions applied for: Economic Development Advisory Board (REQUIRES DISCLOSURE STATEMENT) Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board For over 25 years, I have worked on affordable housing, community revitalization and social mobility through higher education through my roles as municipal employee, nonprofit employee, city council member, mayor, college president and now community relations director for UNC Chapel Hill. I was educated at Yale, UNC, and Univ of Pennsylvania. My early career as an urban planner focused on strengthening cities and I often worked on economic development projects. Since 2020, 1 have worked in higher education. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an important economic engine and anchor in Orange County. We want to be collaborative partners and participate in strengthening economic outcomes for Orange County. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? My personal background which I described above would provide a unique perspective for this advisory board. I want to provide continuity for the university s involvement in this important committee. Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: 7 Page 2 of 2 Ivy Taylor Other Comments: Not Orange County resident; UNC Community Relations Director so may fill UNC Chapel Hill position when vacant. This application was current on: 4/28/2025 8:54:27 PM Date Printed: 4/29/2025 8 Page 1 of 2 Sharon Hill Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Sharon Hill Name Called: Home Address: 301 Laurens Way Chapel Hill NC 27516 Phone: 702-429-5099 Email: sharon@sharonhillinternational.com Year of OC Residence: 1988 Township of Residence: Chapel Hill Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits Gender Identity: Female Ethnic Background: African American Age Range: 60+ Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: I just completed my term with Chapel Hill visitors bureau. I am a member of the Chapel Hill/Carrboro Chamber of Commerce. I am a member and officer of of seven Toastmasters clubs. Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: Former member of the Orange County Economic Development Advisory Committee Boards/Commissions applied for: Economic Development Advisory Board (REQUIRES DISCLOSURE STATEMENT) Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I served several years on this board and was the Chair for a year. My MBA is focused on Organizational Behavior. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board I've been asked to return to the board. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? As an African American woman, I am keen on examining diversity viewpoints for all decisions. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: Economic Development Advisory Board (REQUIRES DISCLOSURE STATEMENT) Application Date: 2/27/2017 Background, education and experience relevant to this board: 9 Page 2 of 2 Sharon Hill Combination of(1) being a citizen of Orange County since 1988, learning and observing the economic history of Orange County combined with (2) having served as president of three non- profit boards of directors, thus learning the processes of making a diff Reasons for wanting to serve on this board: As a local business owner and mentor to business owners, I have had the experience of working with area business owners. Many have shared their successes and failures of working in Orange County. I feel I can help bring those voices to the table. Conflict of Interest: Other Comments: Originally applied for Economic Development Advisory Board 2/27/2017 3:41:57 PM. Completed max terms on this board and reapplied after some time off the board 2/12/2025 10:46:21 AM. This application was current on: 2/12/2025 10:46:21 AM Date Printed: 5/15/2025 10 Page 1 of 2 Camila Hargett Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Camila Hargett Name Called: Home Address: 6647 Wilson Rd. Durham NC 27712 Phone: 919-699-4116 Email: ch@intelconsultingllc.com Year of OC Residence: 2007 Township of Residence: Eno Zone of Residence: County Gender Identity: Female Ethnic Background: Hispanic Age Range: 35-59 Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: Ridgecrest Baptist church (member), Umstead Pines Golf and Swimming Club (member). Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: This would be my first time serving. Boards/Commissions applied for: Durham Technical Community College Board of Trustees Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board With my experience developing a business in the U.S., I can bring valuable insights and innovative strategies to the community college. I can assist in improving financial management and resource optimization. My background will help with strategic planning and community engagement, offering fresh perspectives on curriculum development. Additionally, with my internacional experience abroad I can enhance global outreach and create opportunities for international collaboration and student exchanges. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board Use my skills and talents to serve my community. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? My approach to global outreach and collaboration can help the college foster a more inclusive and globally-minded environment. Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? I believe I have no conflict of interest here. However, I must disclose that I have two nieces currently study there. Economic Development Advisory Board (REQUIRES DISCLOSURE STATEMENT) Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board 11 Page 2 of 2 Camila Hargett In a voluntary position on the economic development advisory board, I could help by leveraging my business experience to provide practical insights into economic strategies and development initiatives. I can assist in identifying opportunities for growth and innovation, drawing from my experience in building and managing a successful business. My background can also aid in creating effective partnerships and fostering community development. Additionally, I can contribute to evaluating economic trends and crafting policies that support sustainable economic growth. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board Use my skills and talents to serve my community. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I can contribute to the diversity of viewpoints by bringing a unique perspective shaped by both international and domestic business practices. Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? I believe I have no interest or conflicts here. Would having a business of my own be a conflict of interest? I believe my business expertise can help here. Orange County Housing Authority Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I could contribute by applying my business experience to improve housing programs and strategies. I can help streamline processes, enhance financial management, and develop effective policies for housing development and affordability. My background allows me to identify innovative solutions for community needs and build strong partnerships. Additionally, I can assist in evaluating housing trends and ensuring that programs align with the county s economic and social goals. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board Use my skills and talents to serve my community. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? My experiences navigating different markets and cultures can provide fresh insights into strategic planning and problem-solving. I can offer diverse ideas on curriculum development and community engagement, enriching discussions with a broader range of perspectives. Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: Other Comments: This application was current on: 8/6/2024 8:02:46 PM Date Printed: 8/21/2024 12 Page 1 of 2 David Gephart Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: David Gephart Name Called: Home Address: 1401 Poplar Ln. Hillsborough NC 27278 Phone: 919-732-6464 Email: dave@gephartmarketing.com Year of OC Residence: 1970 Township of Residence: Eno Zone of Residence: County Gender Identity: Male Ethnic Background: White Age Range: 60+ Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: Seved as HOA President - 27 of last 30 years. Previously on Econ Devel (VC), CHOCVB (Chair), & Energy Committee.Served as Treasurer of Alliance Historic Hillsborough, President of Hillsborough Exchange Club, etc. Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: Previously on Econ Devel (VC), CHOCVB (Chair), & Energy Committee Boards/Commissions applied for: Alcoholic Beverage Control Board Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board Since 1970 (with a brief absence) I have worked for the people of this county to make it the best place to live. As a small business owner and a Kenan-Flagler Graduate I bring a business background. I was campaign manager for the 1 st black student body president at UNC and active with minorities. I work closely with Congresswoman Valerie Foushee, Sen Graig Meyer, Rep Renee Price and several Commissioners. I have lived in 5 states growing up. My father was with an international corporation. I have a Business Degree from Kenan-Flagler. I have worked with small, medium, and huge corporations successfully. I started my own business in 2002 and still going. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board Due to illness, I had to resign from a previous Boards. I am VERY interested in being involved again and helping the community.Bringing a diverse background to help during this time of expansion. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I have lived in CH, Carrboro, Hillsborough, and now Eno Township since 1970. 1 know people across the county, have 2 sons with families living here and feel I can represent well. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? 13 Page 2 of 2 David Gephart Economic Development Advisory Board (REQUIRES DISCLOSURE STATEMENT) Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I have served on this Board before and enjoyed the work and the Loan Subcommittee. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board Due to illness, I had to resign from this Board.l am VERY interested in being involved again and helping the community.Bringing a diverse background to help during this time of expansion. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I have lived in CH, Carrboro, Hillsborough, and now Eno Township since 1970. 1 know people across the county, have 2 sons with families living here and feel I can represent well. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: Economic Development Advisory Board (REQUIRES DISCLOSURE STATEMENT) Application Date: 3/18/2021 Background, education and experience relevant to this board: Having worked with several Chambers of Commerce I have a lot of experience and a love in working on Business Development and Economic Development! As a Marketing Manager Director with FedEx Supply Chain, I have a global understanding of the international Reasons for wanting to serve on this board: For over 40 years I have chosen to live in Orange County(Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough) and I know many aspects of the county that some new comers are not aware of. I want to help Orange County to grow smart and to give back to the community wh Conflict of Interest: Other Comments: Applied for Economic Development Advisory Board 03/18/2021 Applied for Alcoholic Beverage Control Board 4/3/2024 Upated application for Alcoholic Beverage Control Board and submitted new application for Economic Development Advisory Board 5/2/2025 This application was current on: 5/2/2025 3:23:36 PM Date Printed: 5/7/2025 14 Page 1 of 3 Saru Salvi Volunteer Application Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions Name: Ms. Saru Salvi Name Called: Home Address: 506 Silver Fox Cir. Hillsborough NC 27278 Phone: 919-259-3323 Email: sarusalvi@nc.rr.com Year of OC Residence: 2004 Township of Residence: Hillsborough Zone of Residence: Hillsborough ETJ Gender Identity: Female Ethnic Background: African American Age Range: 60+ Community Activities/Organizational Memberships: Treasurer, Master Gardener Volunteer Association (501©(3) Training for VITA Senior Center BOER Alternate Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards: OC Affordable Housing Board, Advisory Board on Aging, BOER (exp 3/2025 - but have asked to serve again) Boards/Commissions applied for: Orange County Planning Board Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board I was a member of the Hillsborough Planning Board. My education is in business (MBA). As a minority, and with today's political climate, I am concerned that low income housing will become less of a priority. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board hope that I can bring another point of view to the growth and housing in Orange County. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? I have lived in public housing with my children at one point in my life. My parents were professionals who served their community. I think that having experience being working class and low income has given me a unique background. I also have seen what gentrification can do to a neighborhood. Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Economic Development Advisory Board (REQUIRES DISCLOSURE STATEMENT) Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board 15 Page 2 of 3 Saru Salvi My business background as an entrepreneur could help with understanding the small business needs. Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board Actually, I think that I not only could give a different viewpoint, but I also think I could learn a lot from others on the board. How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints? As a minority and as an entrepreneur(retired), I would have a unique slant on business. Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest (either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board? Boards/Commissions appointments: Advisory Board on Aging Application Date: 6/8/2022 Background, education and experience relevant to this board: I hold an MBA and an MS, Regulatory Affairs, and have managed project budgeting. When working, I was required to budget large multi-facet clinical trials for our department to assure that all elements were accounted for. For example, a cancer study requir Reasons for wanting to serve on this board: I enjoy sharing knowledge of resources and helping to make people s live a little easier. I just shared information about the VA Elder Care Program, so now her parents are going to receive an addition $1,800 a month. Very helpful since my friend was payin Conflict of Interest: Hillsborough Planning Board Application Date: 9/28/2021 Background, education and experience relevant to this board: I have been leaving in the Hillsborough extraterritorial Jurisdiction area since 2004. 1 have served as President of a HOA in Oceanside CA with more than 350 homes, dealing with the sub- divisions growth, enforcement and budgeting. I have an MBA in fin Reasons for wanting to serve on this board: As I move into retirement, which is planned for January 2021, 1 will have to time to dedicate to community activities. Conflict of Interest: Board of Equalization and Review Application Date: 6/8/2022 Background, education and experience relevant to this board: I hold an MBA, and have personally experienced an evaluation appeal. Reasons for wanting to serve on this board: There are so many people who own and live in homes for years if not generations. The rapid rise in property values is driving up property taxes. Conflict of Interest: 16 Page 3 of 3 Saru Salvi Affordable Housing Advisory Board Application Date: 10/12/2020 Background, education and experience relevant to this board: 990744288 Reasons for wanting to serve on this board: At one time I lived in public housing and received government housing assistance. Conflict of Interest: I understand the need for affordable housing. It can be very difficult to find, especially in an expensive area. I also understand the concerns of neighborhood people who are afraid to have lower income populations around them. Having experienced gove Other Comments: This application was current on: 1/15/2025 3:17:04 PM Date Printed: 1/15/2025 17 Board and Commission Members And Vacant Positions Economic Development Advisory Board (REQUIRES DISCLOSURE STATEMENT) Meeting Times: 12:00 pm Second Tuesday of every other month Contact Person: Steve Brantley,Amanda Garner,&Lindsey Hir Meeting Place: Rotating Contact Phone: 919-245-2325,919-245-2330 Positions: 10 Length:3 years Terms: 2 Description: Work cohesively with the County's Economic Development staff and other economic development partners to position Orange County as a competitive location for business opportunities. Ms. Lisa Kaylie 1 First Appointed: 06/18/2024 Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 06/18/2024 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Expiration: 06/30/2027 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Non-Profit Agency Number of Terms: 1 Elise Tyler 2 First Appointed: 04/05/2022 Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 06/18/2024 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Expiration: 06/30/2027 Age Range: 18-34 Special Repr: Tourism Number of Terms: 2 Kristen Smith Young 3 Chair First Appointed: 06/18/2019 Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 04/26/2022 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Expiration: 06/30/2025 Age Range: Special Repr: UNC Chapel Hill Number of Terms: 2 Ms. Joy Mercer 4 First Appointed: 06/18/2024 Gender Identity: Female Township: Bingham Current Appointment: 06/18/2024 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Expiration: 06/30/2026 Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Entrepreneur Number of Terms: 1 Dr. Jane Saiers 5 First Appointed: 05/18/2021 Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 06/18/2024 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Expiration: 06/30/2027 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Agriculture Number of Terms: 2 Mrs. Emilee Collins 6 First Appointed: 06/18/2024 Gender Identity: Female Township: Cedar Grove Current Appointment: 06/18/2024 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Expiration: 06/30/2027 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Core Business Community Number of Terms: 1 Thursday,May 15,2025 Page 1 18 Board and Commission Members And Vacant Positions Economic Development Advisory Board (REQUIRES DISCLOSURE STATEMENT) Meeting Times: 12:00 pm Second Tuesday of every other month Contact Person: Steve Brantley,Amanda Garner,&Lindsey Hir Meeting Place: Rotating Contact Phone: 919-245-2325,919-245-2330 Positions: 10 Length:3 years Terms: 2 Mr. John Kim 7 First Appointed: 06/18/2024 Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 06/18/2024 Ethnic Background: Asian American Residency Req: Expiration: 06/30/2027 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Core Business Community Number of Terms: 1 Ms. W Estella Johnson 8 First Appointed: 05/18/2021 Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 06/18/2024 Ethnic Background: African American Residency Req: Expiration: 06/30/2027 Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Core Business Community Number of Terms: 2 Hasan A. Abdullah 9 First Appointed: 04/05/2022 Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 05/24/2022 Ethnic Background: Other Residency Req: Expiration: 06/30/2025 Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Core Business Community Number of Terms: 1 Mr. Tom Proctor 10 First Appointed: 10/06/2020 Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 04/26/2022 Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Expiration: 06/30/2025 Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Core Business Community Number of Terms: 1 Thursday,May 15,2025 Page 2 19 Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name Economic Development Advisory Board (REQUIRES Contact Person: Steve Brantley,Amanda Garner, Contact Phone: 919-245-2325,919-245-2330 David Gephart Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 05/02/2025 Ethnic Background: White Township: Eno Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: County Also Serves On: Camila Hargett Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 08/06/2024 Ethnic Background: Hispanic Township: Eno Age Range: 35-59 Zone of Residence: County Also Serves On: Sharon Hill Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 02/12/2025 Ethnic Background: African American Township: Chapel Hill Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: C.H.City Limits Also Serves On: Ms. Saru Salvi Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 01/15/2025 Ethnic Background: African American Township: Hillsborough Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: Hillsborough ETJ Also Serves On: Board of Equalization and Review Dr. Ivy Taylor Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 04/28/2025 Ethnic Background: African American Township: Non-Resident Age Range: 35-59 Zone of Residence: Non-Resident Also Serves On: Thursday,May 15,2025 Page 1 of 1 20 ORANGE COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS ANNUAL REPORT/WORK PLAN Board/Commission Name: Economic Development Advisory Board Report Period: January 2024-December 2024 The Board of Commissioners appreciates the dedication of all the volunteers on their boards and commissions and welcomes input from various boards and commissions throughout the year. Please complete the following information, limited to the front and back of this form. Other background materials may be provided as a supplement to, but not as a substitute for, this form. Person to address the BOCC and contact Information: Kristen Smith Young (Chair) Dir. Of Communications UNC School of Data Science and Society Phone (919) 843-1705 kristen(aDunc.edu Elise Tyler (Vice-Chair) General Manager/Part-Owner— The Colonial Inn Phone (919) 962-9245 eliseCa)_colonialinn-nc.com Primary County Staff Contact Person: Steve Brantley, Director Orange County Economic Development Work Tel # (919) 245-2326 sbrantley(a orangecountync.gov Amanda Garner, Assistant Director Orange County Economic Development Work Tel # (919) 245-2330 agarner _oran_ eq countync.gov How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special meetings and sub-committee meetings? • For 2024, six (6) meeting dates took place: January 9th, March 12th, May 14th July 9th, September 10th and November 12th. 21 • The Orange County Small Business Grant subcommittee, comprised of 5 members of the full advisory board, met three times throughout 2024 to review and score all business grant applications that were received during the year. Those meeting dates occur following the grant application deadlines of December 31, 2023, March 30, 2024 and September 30, 2024. The program did not have funding left for a June 30, 2024 cycle. Five members will continue to serve on the small business grant subcommittee in 2025. • One member of the advisory board also participated in 2024 for reviews of local farmers' and food producers' Agriculture Grant applications that were submitted to the Orange County Agriculture Grant program. One member will continue to serve on the agriculture grant subcommittee in 2025. Brief Statement of Board/Commission's Assigned Charge and Responsibilities. • The Advisory Board works closely with Orange County's Economic Development staff and other economic development partners in Orange County to help market Orange County as a desirable and competitive location for the recruitment & retention of small business ventures, to include agriculture and food processer ventures, the Piedmont Food Processing Center, the Breeze Farm Incubator Program., and the promotion of new & expanding capital investment for non- residential (retail, commercial, light manufacturing and distribution/logistics) business prospects which make a meaningful impact to creating new employment opportunities, and diversify the tax base. • The Advisory Board supports the growth and recruitment of agricultural and food processing systems local businesses, the promotion of entrepreneurial talent via the "LAUNCH" high-tech incubator facility in Chapel Hill, the Piedmont Food & Agriculture Processing facility (PFAP) in Hillsborough, and through the expansion of new, high-technology employment opportunities. What are your Board/Commission's most important accomplishments? • Several Advisory Board Members met individually with some members of the Orange County Board of Commissioners to discuss economic development needs and objectives. The plan is to continue to have a direct dialog periodically throughout each year. • In 2024 the Advisory Board's subcommittee reviewed many small business grant applications that were submitted by Orange County residents for the "Small Business Grant Program", and approved 31 small business grant awards, totaling $149,245.00 for the year. 22 • In 2024 the Advisory Board also assisted in the "Agriculture Economic Development Grant Program" to receive and review applications, approving 17 grant awards totaling $135,173.00 in support of Orange County's small farmers and food processors for the year. • Economic Development used budgeted advertising funds towards two Ad Campaigns starting that began in 2023 and carried through June 2024 with Triangle Digital Partners (Chapel Hill Magazine) and WCHL who highlighted multiple grant recipients and advertised the Business Investment and Agriculture Grant Programs through live radio interviews, various commercials, and Social Media Posts. List of Specific Tasks, Events, or Functions Performed or Sponsored Annually. • The Advisory Board meets quarterly to review, score, and consider all applications submitted by Orange County small businesses and Agricultural ventures to the Orange County Small Business Investment Grant program, and the Orange County Agriculture Grant program. Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out BOCC goal(s)/priorities, if applicable. • Advisory Board members assist Orange County with the regular review of the many small business loan & grant applications, and agriculture/food processing firms' grant applications, that are submitted to the County throughout the year. This is a valuable service that promotes the growth of Orange County's local economy, and directly helps fulfill the Orange County Board of Commissioners' strategic goal under the Diverse and Vibrant Economy section of the Countywide Strategic Plan to "Foster an environment that attracts and retains sustainable and diverse businesses and visitors, employment opportunities and diversifies our tax base." Describe the collaboration relationship(s) this particular board has with other advisory boards and commissions? • One (1) member of the Economic Development Advisory Board, who serves as the representative of the hotel/hospitality sector seat, also sits as a liaison on the Orange County Visitors Bureau's advisory board. • One (1) additional member of the Economic Development Advisory Board, who also serves as the representative on the Agriculture Preservation Board, and who participates in the County's administration of the Orange County Agriculture 23 Grant program. Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2025 as they relate to established BOCC goals and priorities. If applicable, is there a fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities (please list). • The advisory board will play a key role working with the Economic Development Department and an outside consultant to develop a department Strategic Plan throughout 2025. • Promote the attraction of environmentally clean, light manufacturing, distribution, corporate headquarters, commercial and retail businesses, and the required County infrastructure (zoning and utility services) that is needed to support these investments. What are the concerns or emerging issues your board has identified for the upcoming year that it plans to address, or wishes to bring to the Commissioners' attention? • A desire for our advisory board members to occasionally meet with BOCC representatives in order to voice our Advisory Board's thoughts and concerns, and for the Commissioners to be aware of our advisory board's role and contribution to serve the County. • The board would like to provide input to the planning department and planning board on the County's Land Use Plan 2050.