Lenoir County Partners Economic Development Efforts Into New Public-Private Partnership

The Lenoir County Board of Commissioners voted to approve a Memorandum of Understanding between the Lenoir County Committee of 100 and Lenoir County Government to partner economic development into one public-private partnership formally called the Lenoir County Development Alliance, which will be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization at their Board Meeting on Monday, March 17, 2025. 

 

This partnership will help accelerate industrial product development in Lenoir County to help compete with surrounding areas and the region for new industries, increase the number of jobs in Lenoir County and help grow salaries for residents. 

“Since the 1980s, the Lenoir County Committee of 100 has worked to bring new businesses, create jobs, and grow our local economy,” Dan Sale, President of the Lenoir County Committee of 100, said. “This merger is an important step forward, strengthening our partnership with Lenoir County Government to build on that success. 

 

“Together, as the Lenoir County Development Alliance, we will work to attract more industries, develop new opportunities, and create a stronger future for Lenoir County.” 

 

The Lenoir County Board of Commissioners commends the work the Committee of 100 has done over almost four decades of service. 

 

"Economic growth doesn’t happen in isolation,” Lenoir County Board Chair Linda Rouse Sutton said. “It takes a shared commitment, a willingness to roll up our sleeves, work together and invest in the future.” 

 

Sutton continued, “For decades, the Lenoir County Committee of 100 and Lenoir County Government have worked side by side to bring new opportunities to this community. Today, with the formation of the Lenoir County Development Alliance, we take that partnership to the next level. 

 

“This is about more than just economic development; it is about building the kind of future our children and grandchildren deserve. A future where businesses want to invest, where industries can grow, and where the people of Lenoir County have greater opportunities than ever before. This Alliance makes us stronger, more competitive, and ready for what is next.” 

 

Lenoir County Manager Michael James said the formation of the new alliance is a testament to the vision and leadership of the county commissioners, the dedication of the Committee of 100 and the strength of the county’s partnership with the N.C. Global TransPark. 

 

“For decades, these organizations have worked tirelessly to grow our economy, attract industries, and create opportunities for the people of Lenoir County,” James said. “This merger brings those efforts together under a unified strategy that will enhance our ability to compete for new investment and accelerate industrial growth. 

“We are deeply grateful for the commitment of all involved, and we look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on the future of Lenoir County.” 

 

The new Lenoir County Development Alliance will have nine board members. Trey Cash, Economic Development Director for Lenoir and Greene Counties, will serve as the President and Jennifer Clark (Budget and Management Analyst for Lenoir County Government) will serve as the Finance Officer. 

 

The Development Alliance will work in partnership with the NCGTP Economic Development Region.