BC 2007 05 21 Regular - Laserfiche WebLink

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May 21, 2007 (Regular Meeting) Page 360 Mr. Humpy Wheeler, President and General Manager of NASCAR's Lowe's Motor Speedway, spoke in support of the TIF financing for the North Carolina Research Campus. He also stated the need for balanced growth to keep property taxes low. The Honorable James B. Hunt, former North Carolina Governor, spoke for approximately 29 minutes in support of the TIF financing for the North Carolina Research Campus. He said the Research Campus will bring good jobs, better education and will keep taxes low. Ms. Ashley Roach, resident of 2938 Saguaro Lane in Kannapolis and recipient of the New Beginnings Teacher Award by ONC-Charlotte, spoke in support of the TIF financing for the North Carolina Research Campus. John Cox, President and CEO Cabarrus Economic Development Corporation, read letters of support for TIF financing for the North Carolina Research Campus from James T. Fain, III, N.C. Secretary of Commerce and from the Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Dr. Dick Brownell, President of Aowan Cabarrus Community College, emphasized the importance of the role the community college has in the NC Research Campus project. C. L. Adcock, resident of 6206 Silas Avenue in Kannapolis, stated he supports the North Carolina Research Campus and asked the Commissioners to also support the project. Dr. Ed Tyson, resident of 1152 Windson Drive in Kannapolis, stated he is very proud to be a "home boy". He asked Commissioners to support the TIF and the Research project for future generations, including his grandchildren and their children. He also commented on the economic and educational opportunities of the project and how it will impact many generations to come. Larry Taylor, Vice President of the Cabarrus County Farm Bureau, stated the Farm Bureau is very much in favor of the North Carolina Research Campus; however the Bureau is not in favor of the TIF financing. He said funding should be directed toward schools and roads that are needed in Cabarrus County. Ryan Dayvault, resident of 1322 North Cannon Boulevard in Kannapolis, identified the following four legitimate reasons for borrowing money, according to his college professor: to purchase a home, pay for your education, your health, and the expansion of a business. He related each of these reasons back to the Research Campus and how they tie into helping move this county forward. He said supporting the bonds, supports health and nutrition around the world. In conclusion, he asked the Board to support the project. Marilyn Barnhardt, resident of 5800 Wabash Lane in Concord, stated she is against the self-financing bonds. She stated David Murdock is a billionaire and should have to pay for the entire project. She encouraged the Board to have an iron clad contract with Murdock if they decide to support the TIF financing. She said the taxpayers of Cabarrus County should not get stuck with the bill. She also pointed out the taxpayers had to finish paying for the Dale Earnhardt Tribute when it was completed in Kannapolis. Toby Pruitt, Chairman, Cabarrus County Economic Development Corporation and lifelong resident of Concord, encouraged the Board to participate fully in the TIF financing for the North Carolina Research Campus. He said developments of this magnitude are almost always public/private partnerships and only comes along once-in-a-lifetime. Andrew Brown, Pastor of Crossroads Methodist Church, 1308 Central Drive, Kannapolis, stated he and his family were relocated to Cabarrus County to start a new church due to the expected growth from the N.C. Research Campus. He commented the need to see the bigger picture and asked the Board to support the Campus by supporting the TIF bonds. Chairman Carruth reported letters of support for the TIF financing and the N.C. Research Campus were received from Dr. Martin Lancaster of the North Carolina Community College System and from Congressman Robin Hayes. Chairman Carruth thanked the distinguished guests for coming and sharing their support for this project.