WithersRavenel recently completed a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for Jackson County. The County’s purpose in seeking an updated economic development strategic plan was to improve the quality of life for its citizens by building a robust and healthy economy that is diversified, sustainable, and reflects the values of the region.
During each phase of the process, we engaged the community to learn their values, priorities, and concerns. We held multiple sessions with focus groups to consider the County’s internal strengths and weaknesses and external opportunities and threats. Because in-person meetings were not possible, we utilized novel internet-based tools and technology to help gather stakeholder input and comments. This facilitated stakeholder dialogue and allowed us to improve data collection. We communicated often, virtually meeting with County leadership to update stakeholders with our progress and next steps.
We also created a thorough overview of Jackson County, examining demographic, diversity, industry, workforce, education, and housing data. The final CEDS report focused on community priorities like affordable housing, broadband access, education, workforce development, and promoted community assets while preserving natural resources.
Additional recommendations involved land planning, infrastructure investments, entrepreneurship, and small business support. In addition to ideas, we provided steps, key people, resources, and funding sources to accomplish goals. We responded specifically to concerns like improving parking for trout fishing access, creating a regional marketing and economic development plan, and catalyzing entrepreneurship. The report laid out a vision, actionable strategies, and tangible steps to guide the County and its strategic partners in achieving long-term economic growth and sustainability.
Plan deliverables included a comprehensive planning and strategy document with extensive charts, graphics, maps, an executive summary, and PowerPoint presentations. Most importantly, the CEDS report focused on resources and steps to build community resilience, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of our firm’s involvement in this project and our roots and experience in the region, we have in-depth knowledge of WNC’s unique conditions. Throughout this project, we studied local strategies and plans from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Southwestern Commission, Cashiers, and Land of Sky.