East Columbus County Cluster
Economic need
The three towns of the East Columbus County Cluster are all predominantly minority towns located in tier 2 Columbus County and adjoining tier 1 Bladen County. Bolton, population 482, has a dwindling population and has been adversely affected by a bypass that funnels beach traffic around the town rather than through it. Sandyfield, population 340, is rooted in the agriculture of the region. East Arcadia, population 524, has the highest level of poverty at 35 percent of the population.
Entrenched poverty has long plagued the region. This has been intensified by the loss of 650 jobs in the two counties over the last three years. The area's history is tied to agriculture. Timber and tobacco remain the two primary industries, yet only 2 percent of the workforce is now engaged in farming. Manufacturing plants that once employed significant numbers of workings have been closing or cutting back.
History
The three towns began cooperating in 1998 with the aid of the N.C. Black Mayors Association. Among other activities, they are participating in the development of a countywide land-use plan and examining the water and sewer improvements that will be necessary to support development. As one part of this, East Arcadia and Sandyfield are working together to extend East Arcadia's water to Sandyfield.
Vision/Goals/Expectations
Through STEP, the towns seek to strengthen their collaboration. A key goal is to hire a town manager to work with all three towns. They also seek to develop more local leadership, increase community involvement and innovation, and build connections with regional economic initiatives.
Contact
Addie F. Mosley
P.O. Box 327
Bolton, NC 28423
Phone: 910-655-8945
Fax: 910-655-4366
