Gaston County EDC Is Dedicated To Attracting Desirable Businesses

The Gaston County Economic Development Commission (GCEDC) is dedicated to attracting and retaining desirable businesses and employers to continue improving and diversifying economic opportunities in Gaston County.

The GCEDC's main functions are:
• Attracting new, quality industry and commerce
• Helping existing industry and businesses grow
• Stimulating development of appropriate land and buildings
• Improving area infrastructure, especially water, sewer and transportation
• Improving the general business climate, including conditions for new industry
• Informing citizens of the advantages of economic development.

The elected Gaston County Board of Commissioners, one for each major township, appoints GCEDC members, to serve three-year staggered terms, and the Gaston Regional Chamber Economic Development Division (EDD) receives two appointments to the GCEDC Board.

The EDD provides financial support for the Gaston EDC Marketing Program. This is a significant enhancement to operations, providing services to clients and other potential industry. Learn more about the EDD here (PDF Download).

Gaston EDC Staff, One Of Largest In The Carolinas, Has 7 Full-Time Professionals

The GCEDC staff, one of the largest and most experienced in the Carolinas, handles day-to-day functions, as follows:

• Director - Donny Hicks – Handles management of the department, major prospects, site development, budgeting and other key responsibilities (Donny.Hicks(at)co.gaston.nc.us)

• Marketing Director - Steve Nye – Coordinates the EDC marketing program, represents the EDC at major trade shows and events, coordinates recruiting visits to site selection consultants and other decision makers (Steve.Nye(at)co.gaston.nc.us)

• Industry Recruitment - Marc Bolick – Helps companies locate in Gaston County, including site selection, assistance with utilities and business connections (Marc.Bolick(at)co.gaston.nc.us)

• Industry Retention - Darlene Ritter – Visits regularly with industries in the County to understand and meet their needs, assists with expansions and relocations within the County (Darlene.Ritter(at)co.gaston.nc.us)
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