Community Empowerment Through Economic Resilience Feb 14, 2025News

In December of 2023, Michael Savino and members of BREDL’s NoMEC chapter spoke out against rezoning more than 400 acres of land from “rural conservation”, to “general industrial”. Enbridge has proposed a 50 million gallon liquified natural gas storage facility at the site.

A newly formed group of community members and nonprofits is seeking to help Person County, NC create a more vibrant and resilient economy. The group originally formed after Person County resident Michael Savino spoke out at a public hearing on the rezoning for the proposed Moriah Energy Center.  Savino identified the need for local residents to develop their own plan for economic development that serves residents and uplifts community strengths without jeopardizing health, safety, or the rural character of the area.

During February’s session, environmental toxicologist Dr. Undi Hoffler of North Carolina Central University, shared information about how to access funds for potential projects that might come out of the group’s discussion.

The group defines economic resiliency as a community’s ability to cultivate good jobs, quality of life, and essential services, despite changing conditions, as well as to adapt to stressors and leverage new opportunities. In December, the group which includes community members, Blue Ridge Environmental Defense League,  Appalachian Voices, North Carolina Black Alliance, and Down Home North Carolina, held a listening session to learn more about how Person County residents felt about the county’s economy. At that time citizens expressed frustrations about past local economic development efforts, particularly those that may have harmed the environment or neglected marginalized populations.

On February 4th the group, now known as the Partnership for a Strong Rural Economy (PSRE), held a community listening session to hear what ideas residents have for solutions. Common themes of the meeting included bolstering the agricultural economy in the county, supporting small businesses, expanding recreation opportunities, and training community youth for their future endeavors.

Savino, who also serves as one of the local organizers, said that he felt the session was productive. “What I saw there was a passionate group of people from many backgrounds and from many parts of the county coming together because they care so much about the county, and especially about our youth, wanting our young people to thrive right here in Person County.”

“I see how important it is for us to come together to share our passions, our dreams, our ideas. We need each other. Together, we can create a vibrant, healthy, thriving community, and enjoy the rich friendships that develop as we work together,” said Savino.

The group plans to hold more of these sessions throughout the year. Residents will have opportunities to learn about what other communities are doing and to take site visits to other successful projects. Brayndon Stafford, of North Carolina Black Alliance is hopeful that the meetings will leave the community more informed and feeling empowered.

“We are at a pivotal time in history where it’s more important than ever for communities to have a direct hand in the shaping of its future. Fortunately, oftentimes the work of a few can garner the impact of many. PSRE has intentionally worked to provide insight and education to Person County residents in order to engage in positive community development. This group took the initiative to engage the community with informative sessions to help residents, in the light of the challenges they may face, to understand their power and agency in shaping what a future Roxboro would look like for them.”

If your or your organization is interested in participating in these ongoing discussions, please contact Jason Torian at (336) 439-5660.