Hendersonville, NC – During the November 2, 2009 regular meeting of the Henderson County Board of Commissioners, a lease was reviewed and approved for the Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development (HCPED).  HCPED will begin minor aesthetic improvements to 330 North King Street, the old Carnegie library building, before relocating in early December 2009.

The opportunity to consider relocation came about as Henderson County surveyed and inventoried available space and facilities earlier in the year.  During the process of identifying space for the new public defender and relocating planning and engineering to Old Spartanburg Highway, County administration determined that the building at 330 North King Street would not be fully utilized.  The opportunity for HCPED to relocate to the facility would provide a more spacious and visible location in addition to reducing expenses for Henderson County. 

Bill Moyer, Chairman of the Henderson County Board of Commissioners, commented that the relocation was an opportunity to reduce County expenditures while supporting their primary partner in economic development.  “The Partnership is both a strategic and fiscal ally of Henderson County.  Their efforts and successes in retaining and creating quality jobs are critical to our future, and we are happy to be of assistance in finding a more permanent location for their offices,” stated Moyer.  “The move is a natural reflection of the County’s emphasis on economic development and confidence in the Partnership.”

The Partnership is closely tied to Henderson County, through strategic and comprehensive planning, in addition to working with administration, planning and other departments on behalf of existing and prospective businesses.  HCPED Board Chairman Mark Stone explained that this close relationship furthered the interest to relocate to available building space.  “The County’s offer to work with us on a more permanent location allows our Board and staff to focus on our program of work and not facilities issues.  The opportunity to occupy this historic and visible building will allow us to appropriately showcase Henderson County to prospects and clients,” Stone said.

Minor improvements to ready the building will continue until the Partnership relocates in early December.  The facilities improvements will help preserve the former Carnegie Library in its original form and stature.  The Partnership looks forward to hosting an open house for their allies, members and investors later in the year.

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.  For more information on the Partnership visit www.strategiclocation.com.

*  *  *