Back in June, economic developer John Swope requested that the board consider hiring an assistant economic developer at a cost of $52,268, the salary and benefits, to county tax payers. During that budget session, county manager Scott Sauer recommended that the board move forward with it saying, “He really made a good case (for the position),” said Sauer.
Thus, when the board decided against moving forward with the position, rather than completely rejecting the idea, commissioner Jefferson Strickland requested that it be delayed until January. So, on Monday, Swope once again brought up his desire to have an assistant developer in his department.
“Someone in my position needs to build up (Sampson County’s) assets,” Swope explained to the board. He added that with the renewable energy plant Fibrowatt coming to the area, it, alone, was going to take a huge percentage of his time.
But, he explained, if he had an assistant developer, his time could be spend on finding more industries like Fibrowatt with intentions to bring as many as 100 jobs to the area.
Swope noted that in order to find an industry of such a magnitude, he pointed out, “(it) takes a tremendous amount of time, and I do ask that the position be added.”
He explained that the salary he felt was at approximately $44,000 due to him wanting to find someone with experience.
As Swope finished his plea, Strickland, looking discouraged, explained to the economic developer, “I think you can agree that we have supported your work,” said Strickland who added, “I think your timing is terrible.”
Strickland then added that part of his concern is with a survey that he saw that explained that only 38 percent of consumers have any confidence in the economy.
He then repeated, “The timing is just terrible.”
Swope answered his concern by saying, “I don’t have to have that position, but I think it would be an opportunity (for the county).”
“I don’t doubt that it will be beneficial,” answered Strickland, “but I also know what the times are now.”
Chairman Jarvis McLamb shared that he agreed with Strickland.
“Timing is bad,” said McLamb.
With this, Strickland motioned for the board to reconsider this position during the next budget session in June. Lockamy seconded the motion stating, “He does do an excellent job, but it is bad time. It is not you.” It was approved with commissioners John Blanton and Malachi Faison offering the only dissenting votes. However, they did not comment on why they voted against the measure.
Katie Holland can be reached at 910-592-8137, ext. 136, or by email at silife@intrstar.net.
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