by Katie Orlando

DAVIDSON – In an effort to make the town more attractive to businesses, town officials have commissioned an economic development plan aimed at pitching Davidson’s benefits to industry leaders.

Kathleen Rose, Davidson resident and president of Rose & Associates Land Development & Real Estate Advisory Services, presented the plan to the board and staff at their retreat Jan. 11-13.

“Davidson has an established brand as a great place to live,” Rose said. “Now it needs to develop itself a brand as a great place to work.”

Rose and the Lawrence Group, who are partnering on the study with the town and Davidson Civic Investment Commission, are using data from the 2010 U.S. Census, and a number of town studies, as well as input from local business leaders to create the five-year study.

The strategic plan will focus on creating a more friendly business environment as well as locating opportunities within the town for industry.

Commissioners were excited about adding a comprehensive economic strategy to the efforts the town is already making in social and environmental development.

Commissioner Laurie Venzon also related getting more people to live and work in Davidson to more potential MI-Connection subscribers.

Commissioners agreed at the retreat that the broadband cable company the town owns with Mooresville will need a continued, concerted marketing push in the coming year.

Commissioners will finalize their goals for the town at their September retreat.

Have business insight to contribute?

Contact Downtown Manager Kim Fleming at kfleming@townofdavidson.org to contribute local business expertise and interview with Kathleen Rose.