Mission Statement:

"The Economic Development Committee of Avery County is dedicated to attracting, expanding and retaining diversified economic opportunities in Avery County, to enhance the quality of life for its communities and citizens."

Vision Statement:

"Avery County will be one of the most sought after regions of Western North Carolina for aspiring families, businesses, and industry."

Avery County EDC Members:

Bill Close Chairman - wjcjr49edc@bellsouth.net

John Greene Vice-Chair - john.l.greene@ncmail.net

David Rash Secretary - davidrash@yahoo.com

Rachel Deal Treasurer - rd.daniels@ncmail.net

Suzanne Owens - sowens@mayland.edu

Dempsey Clark - dclark2118@charter.net

Dennis Aldridge - dennis@aaronbaptist.org

John Angel - jangel@thesterlingcompany.com

Myra Brinkley - mbrinkley@averyedc.org

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We analyze Avery County's climate as a place to live and do business based on four areas:

• education and workforce development


• infrastructure


• business costs and capacity


• quality of life.

...There are currently two economic development entities in Avery County: North Avery County with its numerous real estate developments, gated communities, golf course communities and ski-related industries, however, upper Avery County shares the agricultural industries of lower Avery County.

....Lower Avery County consists of long-standing communities of a historically agrarian population that have been successfully cultivating Fraser Fir Christmas Trees, ornamentals, and traditional food crops. This population is deeply rooted in family culture, church, and culturally inherent aspects of art and music.