Town of Valdese
Economic need
The decline of the textile industry has hurt Valdese on several fronts. A town of 4,485, it has lost 500 jobs in just the past three years and more than 1,000 in the past decade. The textile mills were major customers for the town's utilities, and with their departure, Valdese lost $500,000 in annual operating revenue as well as jobs and tax base.
The town is located in the foothills of Burke County, a tier 2 county with 6.6 percent unemployment. The municipal poverty rate is 12 percent.
History
Valdese recognizes the need to transition to a more diverse economy, including niche industries suited for the area, small business development, tourism, and support for existing industry. It has several related efforts under way. These include participation in the development of a county industrial park, recruitment of industry for vacant buildings, plans to convert one textile plant into a multi-use facility, a "Buy in Burke" campaign, and incentives for building restoration. The town also has hired a full-time tourism director.
Vision/Goals/Expectations
Through STEP, the town seeks to develop a five-year plan for economic transition. A necessary component will be the development of a cohesive team of community leaders, who will not only spur the effort but help re-energize their fellow citizens.
Contact
Jeffrey V. Morse, Manager
P.O. Box 339
Valdese, NC 28690-0339
Phone: 828-879-2120
Fax: 828-879-2139
E-mail: jmorse@ci.valdese.nc.us
