Hurricane Helene Updates

Historic Three-Party Agreement Made to Promote Economic Development in Henderson County

November 19, 2020

Henderson County, NC – In an effort to provide suitable land for industrial development, an agreement between Henderson County, City of Hendersonville, and Economic Investment Fund of Henderson County (EIF) has been finalized to purchase 41 acres of land in southeast Henderson County. The site is an industrial zoned property at Garrison Lane between Upward Road and Crest Road adjacent to Appleland Business Park.

EIF formed out of the Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development (HCPED) as a separate 501(c)3 entity in 2016 when it was apparent that the future of economic development in Henderson County would be stalled without strategic site development efforts. Chip Gould, Chairman of EIF, stated, “This purchase is a result of the public-private partnership efforts that have been ongoing since 2016. With the topography in Henderson County, we have to work harder and smarter to gain traction with industrial sites. Once the three parties rolled up their sleeves to begin due diligence, the site became immediately more attractive and garnered interest. EIF is excited that the County and City are working together to develop an industrial park that will create quality jobs.”  The purchase requires a three-party agreement between the County, the City and the non-profit. In addition, the County and City have worked together and will purchase the land through an interlocal agreement. EIF will continue to market the property for industrial development- a sector of our economy that promotes robust taxable investment and wages significantly higher than that of the county average.

Elected leaders praised the move. Henderson County Commissioner Grady Hawkins expressed his approval of the collaboration. “When the County and the City win and can help bring high paying jobs to our area and establish a tax base, everyone wins.”

“It is with great pleasure that we join with Henderson County to provide growth for industrial jobs and sites designed for industrial plants. I appreciate everyone’s support in this endeavor. We look forward to our first manufacturer on this site,” agreed Hendersonville Mayor Barbara Volk.

The Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development, Inc. is a 501(c)6 organization that works to: retain and attract quality jobs; solicit new business compatible with the assets and values of Henderson County; promote Henderson County’s business image; assist expansion of existing companies; and enhance Henderson County’s overall quality of life. 

As an affiliate of HCPED, the Economic Investment Fund of Henderson County works with willing landowners to identify, secure, and mature property for future industrial development in Henderson County. For more information on economic development in Henderson County visit: www.hcped.org