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The Real Estate and Building Industry
Coalition · 1201 Greenwood Cliff · Suite 310 · Charlotte, NC · 28204 |
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REBIC e-News for January 30, 2009: MECKLENBURG:
3 Options for vacation rentals on hearing agenda Charlotte Observer · January 25, 2009 (scroll down to 2nd story in the article)
The Cornelius Board of Commissioners is considering three options for regulating vacation rental homes, and Mayor Jeff Tarte said the issue could be settled one and for all at the board's Feb. 2 meeting.
Charlotte-region home prices drop 5.3% By Stella M. Hopkins · Charlotte Observer · January 28, 2009
Charlotte-area home sales prices fell again in November and slipped in the overall ranking of a closely watched index released Tuesday.
Charlotte's commercial building boom has run into a wall By Doug Smith · Charlotte Observer · January 28, 2009
The development engine that propelled a surge in Charlotte skyscrapers, mixed-use projects and shopping centers over the past five years has slowed to a crawl.
IREDELL:
Economist to address area homebuilders group Mooresville Tribune· January 28, 2009
Elliot Eisenberg, the Senior Economist for the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), will be in Mooresville Feb. 5 to address Lake Norman-area homebuilders about "the importance of housing to the recovery and health of our economy."
Chamber readies its own stimulus plan By Bethany Fuller · Statesville Record & Landmark · January 29, 2009
Its plan isn't worth billions, but the Greater Statesville Chamber of Commerce is working on its own economic stimulus.
NORTH CAROLINA:
In N.C., business failures have set record By Adam Bell · Charlotte Observer · January 29, 2009
A record number of N.C. businesses told the state last year they were dissolving, new data from the Secretary of State's office shows.
NATIONAL:
Home sales show surprising strength in Dec. MSNBC.com · January 26, 2009
Sales of existing homes posted an unexpected increase last month, closing out the worst year for the U.S. real estate market in more than a decade on a surprising up note.
New home sales drop deeper in December By Renea Merle · Charlotte Observer · January 30, 2009
New home sales plummeted by nearly 15 percent last month as builders struggled to unload a glut of homes on the market, according to new government data.
Members in the News: John Loberg elected 2009 chair of the Real Estate and Building Industry Coalition Press Release · January 28, 2009
John Loberg is the newly elected chair of the Real Estate and Building Industry Coalition (REBIC) for 2009.
By Katy Finger · Charlotte Business Journal · January 23, 2009
The Bissell Cos. has shown a remarkable ability to fill office space in its Ballantyne Corporate Park in almost any economic climate.
Other News: CABARRUS:
Concord's big Gateway project is on hold By Doug Smith · Charlotte Observer · January 30, 2009
The faltering real estate economy has torpedoed plans for a major mixed-use development unveiled last summer in Concord.
UNION:
Water permits halted for 60 days By Ritchie E. Starnes · The County Edge · January 26, 2009
Because homebuilders are hording their water allocation for future Union County development, existing and ready-to-do customers are parched for water.
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REBIC e-News for January 23, 2009: MECKLENBURG:
Plunge in homebuilding getting deeper in region By Stella M. Hopkins · Charlotte Observer · January 23, 2009
Charlotte-area home construction tumbled even harder last month than the grim drops reported Thursday for builders nationwide and finished 2008 at the lowest level in years.
Charlottean to be liaison for Perdue By Jim Morrill · Charlotte Observer · January 23, 2009
N.C. Gov. Bev Perdue Thursday named Marion Sullivan her director of intergovernmental affairs.
IREDELL:
GSDC speaker paints optimistic economic future By Bethany Fuller · Statesville Record & Landmark · January 22, 2009
After months in a recession, business owners should look the economy to get better in late 2009, said the guest speaker for the Greater Statesville Development Corporation's annual meeting.
NORTH CAROLINA:
By Fred Tannenbaum · The Mecklenburg Times · January 9, 2009
Making Interstate 77 a toll road between Statesville and the South Carolina border is one idea a state committee has come up with to raise tens of millions of dollars for a badly-needed road widening.
Panel: Annexation shouldn't be forced on residents By Gary D. Robertson · StarNewsOnline.com · January 22, 2009
Cities and towns shouldn't be allowed to annex unincorporated areas unless targeted residents first are allowed to vote on the matter, a legislative study committee agreed Thursday despite opposition from a powerful lobbying group and state senator.
Members in the News: Commuter rail drives Huntersville project By Carolyne Steeves · The Mecklenburg Times · January 9, 2009
Harris Development Group presented a rezoning request to the Huntersville Town Board this week that would permit a mixed-use development next to the proposed North Corridor Commuter Rail Line.
Other News: CABARRUS:
Commissioners approve controversial land-use plan By Karen Cimino Wilson · Independent Tribune · January 20, 2009
Residents for and against a plan that will down-zone 24,500 acres to preserve agricultural and open space and restrict development in Concord's eastern growth district spoke Tuesday during the Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners meeting.
Condominium project approved despite concerns over school crowding By Karen Cimino Wilson · Independent Tribune · January 21, 2009
The Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday approved a 168-foot condominium development called Edison Square that will be located at the intersection of Harris Road and Ellenwood Drive near the Skybrook Golf Club and the Cabarrus-Mecklenburg county line.
Commissioners table increase to developer fee for schools By Karen Cimino Wilson · Independent Tribune · January 21, 2009
The Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners voted 5-0 to table an increase to the Adequate Public Facilities Voluntary Mitigation fee required for homes and townhouses.
Some residents want to keep N.C. 3 rural By Karen Cimino Wilson · Independent Tribune · January 22, 2009
Some of the Cabarrus County residents who attended a meeting about how to develop N.C. 3 between Kannapolis and Mooresville said they do not want to see the highway become four lanes with a mix of commercial and residential development.
Commissioners appoint new Watershed Improvement Commission member By Karen Cimino Wilson · Independent Tribune · January 22, 2009
The Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to appoint Armistead Eugene Divine to the Watershed Improvement Commission.
UNION:
By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · January 22, 2009
Cash-strapped Union County will announce a wave of layoffs today, with about 40 employees under the gun, County Manager Al Greene said.
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REBIC e-News for January 16, 2009: MECKLENBURG:
By Scott Mooneyham · The Mecklenburg Times · January 6, 2009
George Miller knows a little bit about tax policy.
City councilman's sister wins school board seat By Eric Frazier · Charlotte Observer · January 13, 2009
Ask Kimberly Mitchell-Walker what she thinks of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school board member she's replacing, and she'll tell you Vilma Leake did great things in her 11-year tenure.
By Michael Gordon · Charlotte Observer · January 13, 2009
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board chose longtime member Molly Griffin as its new chair tonight, a few minutes after ending a short deadlock and tapping Kimberly Mitchell-Walker to fill its District 2 seat.
Chamber: New businesses, investment up Charlotte Business Journal · January 15, 2009
Mecklenburg County experienced increases in new and expanding businesses, capital investment and the amount of commercial space to be occupied by local companies this year.
As design workload falls, firms trim payroll to save By Laura Williams-Tracy · Charlotte Business Journal · January 16, 2009
Charlotte architecture, engineering and design firms are pondering more layoffs in a bruising business climate.
IREDELL:
Press barred from Lake Davidson meeting By Joe Marusak · Mooresville Tribune · January 15, 2009
Mooresville commissioner Miles Atkins refused to enter a meeting of the Lake Davidson Working Committee this morning after the chairwoman of the committee told two news reports that the meeting was private and they wouldn't be allowed to attend.
NORTH CAROLINA:
Panel suggests changes to business tax laws The News & Observer · January 14, 2009
North Carolina should drop some business tax credits that began in the 1990s because they no longer create jobs, and the state should give more cash grants and lower the corporate tax rate, according to a university report released Tuesday.
TVA must limit plants' pollution By Anne Paine · The Tennessean · January 14, 2009
Judge orders reduction of emissions into N.C.
Bill would funnel billions to N.C., but Perdue wants fewer restrictions By Barbara Barrett · The News & Observer · January 16, 2009
Congress' plan for stoking the economy isn't the no-strings-attached sack of billions that Gov. Beverly Perdue hoped for when she traveled to Washington this week asking for cash.
NATIONAL:
Duke joins plan to lower emissions By Bruce Henderson · Charlotte Observer · January 16, 2009
Duke Energy was among a rare group of household-name corporations and environmental groups that rolled out a plan Thursday to sharply lower greenhouse gas emissions as President-elect Obama assumes office.
Members in the News: Kimberly-Horn's Urban Resource Group opens office in Charlotte's South End Press Release · January 13, 2009
Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. is opening an Urban Resource Group (URG) office, Charlotte-South End, which will be the firm's second office in metro Charlotte. Click here for supplemental information.
Builder 'university' salutes its first class of graduates Press release · Mooresville Tribune · January 14, 2009
In January of 2008, the Lake Norman Home Builders Association (LNHBA) announced a partnership with the North Carolina Builder Institute (NCBI) and Mitchell Community College-Mooresville to launch the LNHBA University to offer on going continuing education opportunities in the building industry.
Other News: CABARRUS:
Kannapolis to start code enforcement campaign By Ben McNeely · Independent Tribune · January 14, 2009
Kannapolis is starting a code enforcement campaign to educate residents and business owners about the city's zoning and appearance codes.
Forums will examine N.C. 3 corridor use Salisbury Post · January 14, 2009
Two forums on Jan. 22 will give area residents a chance to hear more about land use along the N.C. 3 corridor and give their input.
UNION:
County tosses district question to committee By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · January 14, 2009
Union County commissioners want an advisory committee to study whether the Board of Commissioners should continue to be elected at large or by districts.
Becker blasts annexation limits By Jason deBruyn · Enquirer Journal · January 14, 2009
A Union County town wants to retain annexation authority.
County attorney said he quit rather than face firing By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · January 16, 2009
Former Union County attorney John Burns said he resigned in late 2008 because he expected to be forced out of office by the new Board of Commissioners.
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REBIC e-News for January 9, 2009: MECKLENBURG:
By Anne Doss Helms · Charlotte Observer · January 8, 2009
With an hour of formal remarks wrapped up, six days of behind-the-scenes lobbying for a Charlotte-Mecklenburg school board seat begins.
By Jim Morrill · Charlotte Observer · January 8, 2009
If Charlotte and Mecklenburg County officials get their wish, they won't have to travel far to see the new governor.
Bissell-Hayes combines with Cottingham-Chalk Charlotte Business Journal · January 8, 2009
Two of Charlotte's most prominent residential real estate firms, Cottingham-Chalk & Associates, Inc. and Bissell-Hayes Inc. Realtors®, are joining forces.
Charlotte home sales plummet 47.2% Charlotte Business Journal · January 9, 2009
The number of houses sold in the Charlotte market fell 47.2 percent last month, and the average closing price declined 8.3 percent, according to the Charlotte Regional Realtor® Association.
NORTH CAROLINA:
Yadkin River fix on bridge to nowhere By Steve Harrison · Charlotte Observer · January 3, 2009
Another year has passed, and one of the state's most critical transportation projects is no closer to being built.
Perdue chooses her transportation team By Mark Johnson · Charlotte Observer · January 6, 2009
With North Carolina's need for roads expanding - and money to build them dwindling - Gov.-elect Bev Perdue on Monday named a veteran administrator to overhaul the state's transportation system.
Business leaders speak of restoring confidence By Alan M. Wolf · The News & Observer · January 6, 2009
Amid a generally gloomy discussion Monday about the state and national economies in 2009, several business leaders and economists advocated taking more of a positive spin to spur a speedier recovery.
NC speeds up building projects to create jobs By Gary D. Robertson · StarNewsOnline.com · January 6, 2009
North Carolina's top elected officials agreed Tuesday to speed up more than $740 million in government building projects, a decision outgoing Gov. Mike Easley said will hurry the creation of more than 25,000 new jobs.
By Jack Hagel · The News & Observer · January 9, 2009
North Carolina homebuilders say they need federal help to survive the worst slump in decades.
NATIONAL:
Mortgage rates fall to record low Charlotte Business Journal · January 9, 2009
Average rates on long-term mortgages have fallen to their lowest level since at least 1971, when Freddie Mac started keeping track.
IREDELL:
Chamber's new credo: 'Buy Local' By Megan Pillow · Mooresville Tribune · January 2, 2009
Chamber of Commerce officials in Mooresville are hoping their new idea to encourage people to buy from local businesses will give the area's struggling economy and its business owners a welcomed shot in the arm.
Statesville's future examined now By Bethany Fuller · Statesville Record & Landmark · January 8, 2009
Statesville leaders want to determine what the city will look like in the next couple of years.
CABARRUS:
By Karen Cimino Wilson · Independent Tribune · January 5, 2009
Increasing the fee collected from new housing projects to offset the cost of new schools would not be prudent at a time when the housing industry is floundering, commissioner Grace Mynatt said Monday.
UNION:
Protest? Planning board misses meeting By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · January 8, 2009
The Union County Planning Board didn't walk out of talks about how to reorganize county advisory boards.
Stallings introduced their new GIS web applications! Stallings Press Release · January 8, 2009
The Town of Stallings now has GIS web applications available for the public to use. The purpose of the Stallings GIS applications is to provide data containing geographic information about Stallings. In the preparation of this data, every effort has been made to offer the most current, correct, and clearly expressed information possible. To view the GIS application, go to the town's web site www.stallingsnc.org and click on the GIS tab.
Investors sought for downtown Monroe By Jason deBruyn · Enquirer Journal · January 9, 2009
City officials want to attract big investors downtown.
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REBIC e-News for December 31, 2008: MECKLENBURG:
Development: Projects going into slow mode By Doug Smith · Charlotte Observer · December 28, 2008
In developer lore, the first seven years of this decade might well be remembered as the good ol' days.
By Julia Oliver · Charlotte Observer · December 29, 2008
Next steps for Eastland Mall redevelopment: Finding a developer, extending land options.
Charlotte home prices fall; still among best markets By Stella M. Hopkins · Charlotte Observer · December 30, 2008
Charlotte home sales prices continued sliding in October, according to a popular price index released this morning.
NORTH CAROLINA:
N.C. draws people despite the economy By Ames Alexander · Charlotte Observer · December 23, 2008
North Carolina's population rose 2 percent during the past year, making it the nation's fourth fastest growing state - and the most rapidly growing of any state east of Texas, a new report shows.
Perdue doesn't want to be hindered by budget By Gary D. Robertson · StarNewsOnline.com · December 29, 2008
Beverly Perdue will make history when she's sworn in as the state's first female governor.
Silt new target of Catawba watchdog By Bruce Henderson · Charlotte Observer · December 30, 2008
A Catawba River watchdog group will start training volunteers next week to help stop North Carolina's leading water pollutant, sediment, from flowing into local creeks and lakes.
CABARRUS:
Cabarrus leaders make predictions for 2009 By Eric Deines · Independent Tribune · December 30, 2008
Whether it's school construction or water infrastructure work, a worldwide economic recession will permeate all issues and projects facing local governments in the coming year.
UNION:
Mint Hill company takes over Woods appeal By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · December 23, 2008
Builders will continue their appeal of Weddington's choice to nix sewer for an upscale development off N.C. Highway 84, even though project leaders are shuffling responsibility.
Monroe council OKs gas pipeline financing By Tiffany Lane · Enquirer Journal · December 30, 2008
A 43-mile natural gas pipeline will soon stretch from Monroe to Mooresville after the Monroe City Council unanimously approved installment financing on Monday.
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REBIC e-News for December 19, 2008: MECKLENBURG:
Vacation rental homes face uncertain future in Cornelius Charlotte Observer · December 14, 2008
The Cornelius Planning Board last week recommended that vacation rental homes no longer be allowed in single-family neighborhoods.
New homes coming to Cornelius as construction hits record low By Alex Reed · WCNC.com · December 16, 2008
A new Bloomberg business report shows new home construction fell 19 percent in November.
Council questions condo policy By Fred Clasen-Kelly · Charlotte Observer · December 16, 2008
Charlotte City Manager Curt Walton has told a City Council member he would look into how city rules allowed a business owner and a BMW mechanic to each qualify for a government affordable housing program.
Downturn may force CATS to reduce bus, rail service By Steve Harrison · Charlotte Observer · December 16, 2008
Some riders may face longer waits as the transit system copes with sliding tax revenue.
Mortgage rates spur torrent of refinances By Alan Zibel · Charlotte Observer · December 18, 2008
Tony Jabon had an email in to his mortgage broker by 10 a.m
NORTH CAROLINA:
N.C. looks at taxing drivers by the mile By Steve Harrison · Charlotte Observer · December 15, 2008
With gas-tax revenues plummeting, the state of North Carolina is looking seriously at taxing motorists for how far they drive.
By Benjamin Niolet · The News & Observer · December 16, 2008
Gov.-elect Beverly Perdue wanted to know what needs fixing in North Carolina, and in a series of meetings open to the public, her transition staff heard an earful.
By David Bracken · The News & Observer · December 16, 2008
Leaders of North Carolina cities are intensifying their lobbying for shares of the billions in aid that President-elect Barack Obama wants to restart America's economy.
Cities group pushes for annexation law change By Chris Mazzolini · StarNewsOnline.com · December 17, 2008
The group that represents North Carolina's cities and towns has proposed changes to state annexation laws to ease the burden on residents in a city's sights.
Panel suggests putting House debate online The News & Observer · December 19, 2008
A committee convened to look at televising debate at the state House of Representatives recommends broadcasting on the Internet, assuming the legislature can afford it.
NATIONAL:
Why home values may take decades to recover By Dennis Cauchon · USA Today · December 12, 2008
Rick Wallick moved into a new, three-bedroom $200,000 home in Maricopa, Ariz., in October 2005.
CABARRUS:
Final decision on land-use plan falls to commissioners By Eric Deines · Independent Tribune · December 16, 2008
The final component of a massive land-use plan for Concord's eastern growth area will fall to a decision from the Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners in January.
2 years later: Water fight continues on By Eric Deines · Independent Tribune · December 19, 2008
Nearly two years after the cities of Concord and Kannapolis received a state license to draw water from neighboring water basins, the fight over the matter goes on.
IREDELL:
By Bethany Fuller · Statesville Record & Landmark · December 19, 2008
The election is over, but signs of the political process continue to dot the landscape across Iredell County.
UNION:
Board OKs 'conflict of interest' forms By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · December 16, 2008
The Union County Board of Commissioners approved "conflict of interest" forms Monday after a tense debate with county advisers.
Advisory boards' makeup could change By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · December 17, 2008
County commissioners are pushing an amendment that would spell major changes to the size and makeup of two Union County advisory boards.
Manager, commissioner clash over agenda By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · December 19, 2008
With the change in leadership comes a change in leadership style.
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REBIC e-News for December 12, 2008: CABARRUS:
New flood plain map causes confusion in Cabarrus County WSOCTV.com · December 9, 2008
The Rocky River flooding over its banks and destroyed a number of homes earlier this year, showing many Cabarrus County residents how important flood insurance is.
CAROLINAS:
Progress urged on saving river By Dan Huntley · Charlotte Observer · December 9, 2008
Eight months after the Catawba was named America's most endangered river, an environmental group says Carolinas legislators have yet to improve management of the 300-mile waterway.
By Matt Garfield · The Herald · December 9, 2008
David Merryman, Catawba riverkeeper.
LANCASTER:
By Jenny Overman · Fort Mill Times · December 9, 2008
New standards for county roads were approved at Monday night's Lancaster County Council meeting, paving the way for more communities to have their roads accepted into the county system.
Council gives approval for Catawba Ridge development By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · December 11, 2008
A development in Catawba Ridge is a go after a final vote by County Council on Monday night.
MECKLENBURG:
By Nichole Monroe Bell · Charlotte Observer · December 7, 2008
A proposal to build Charlotte's first solar-powered condominium tower has met strong resistance from neighbors who say the project is a poor fit for the area just south of SouthPark.
Tillis elected as N.C. House GOP whip Charlotte Observer · December 8, 2008
Rep. Thom Tillis, a Republican from Cornelius, was elected minority whip Sunday during the state Republican Caucus in Greensboro.
By Bruce Henderson · Charlotte Observer · December 8, 2008
For 18 months Charlotteans have put up with drought, brown laws and water restrictions.
A spark of life for real estate By Kirsten Valle and Nancy Stancill · Charlotte Observer · December 9, 2008
Falling mortgage rates may provide the flicker of interest for those looking to buy into the stagnant housing market.
By Eric Frazier and Ann Doss Helms · Charlotte Observer · December 10, 2008
Republicans gained a seat on the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school board Tuesday, but a surprising defection from their ranks left the board's leadership in limbo and raised questions about the balance of power.
McCrory won't seek eighth term By Erik Spanberg · Charlotte Business Journal · December 11, 2008
For Mayor Pat McCrory, eight is too much.
Home sales price, closings plunge in region By Adam Bell · Charlotte Observer · December 11, 2008
Home sales prices and the number of closings continued to tumble in the Charlotte region, data released this morning show.
Mecklenburg foreclosures improve Charlotte Business Journal · December 11, 2008
The number of foreclosures in Mecklenburg County fell 34 percent in November from a year ago.
NORTH CAROLINA:
Tax discussed as possible source of highway money By Barry Smith · Freedom Raleigh Bureau · November 29, 2008
A state committee looking into meeting the transportation demands of a growing North Carolina has tentatively approved a plan that could provide more than $1 billion a year for highways and transit programs.
Forecast: N.C. to lose nearly 96,000 jobs By Jefferson George · Charlotte Observer · December 9, 2008
For the first time in five years, North Carolina will see a loss in total jobs this year - more than 58,000, according to an economic forecast released today.
By Mark Johnson · Charlotte Observer · December 11, 2008
A special transportation committee gave final approval Wednesday to a report that proposes a new tax on the number of miles a car is driven each year, as well as other options for generating highway and transit money.
UNION:
Economy puts brakes on road projects By Jason deBruyn · Enquirer Journal · December 7, 2008
Roads might stay a little bumpier in 2009.
By Jason deBruyn · Enquirer Journal · December 9, 2008
City economic development officials celebrated a good year, but offered cautious predictions for the next year.
Providence Road ahead of schedule By Jason deBruyn · Enquirer Journal · December 10, 2008
The Providence Road widening project is ahead of schedule.
County studies inspection fee increase By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · December 11, 2008
Union County officials are pondering "significant" increases in inspection fees for septic tanks and wells.
Clock ticking on airport land grab By Ritchie E. Starnes · The County Edge · December 12, 2008
Time is running out for property owners to appeal the city of Monroe's condemnation of nine acres near the airport.
YORK:
Fort Mill residents wary of bypass By Charles D. Perry · The Herald · December 7, 2008
Whose homes will be razed to make room for the Fort Mill southern bypass?
York County wants your ideas on what to do with Knights Stadium By Charles D. Perry · The Herald · December 10, 2008
What should York County do with Knights Stadium?
Outdoor sports venue planned at former Celanese site By Matt Garfield · The Herald · December 10, 2008
A bicycle racing track first pitched four years ago in Rock Hill has been recast as part of a larger sports venue planned at the former Celanese site.
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REBIC e-News for December 5, 2008: CABARRUS:
Schools asked to tighten budget further By Justin Vick · Independent Tribune · November 26, 2008
Superintendent Barry Shepherd met with the Cabarrus County Board of Education Thursday to begin identifying where Cabarrus County Schools could cut $1.1 million from its already lean budget.
Poole, Carruth sworn in as Cabarrus commissioners By Eric Deines · Independent Tribune · December 2, 2008
Before she was sworn onto the Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners on Monday night, Commissioner Liz Poole snuck into the board's chambers to see where she would be sitting.
How to manage next big project? County considering options By Eric Deines · Independent Tribune · December 2, 2008
Before the new county jail project sparked some community controversy, there was some disagreement among the Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners as to how to manage this project.
IREDELL:
Mooresville utilities prepared to handle growth, town officials say By Megan Pillow · Mooresville Tribune · November 28, 2008
Mooresville utilities say developers need not worry about the town's ability to provide utility services to potential projects.
LANCASTER:
Headquarters could bring 300 jobs to Fort Mill By Staff Reports · The Herald · December 4, 2008
A company that acts as a go-between for mortgage companies and delinquent homeowners plans to build its headquarters and bring as many as 300 jobs to Indian Land, state officials said today.
MECKLENBURG:
Cover Story: Charlotte and the Economy WBTV.com · December 1, 2008
Charlotte City leaders getting a good look at how the city is weathering the country's current economic crisis.
Mecklenburg may face debt problems By April Bethea · Charlotte Observer · December 2, 2008
Wall Street's troubles could delay dozens of public construction projects across Mecklenburg County, including the opening of four new elementary schools.
County votes to borrow up to $343.8 million By April Bethea · Charlotte Observer · December 2, 2008
Mecklenburg County commissioners agreed tonight to borrow up to $343.8 million to pay for construction projects, but said they'll trim the amount if needed because of economic conditions.
Mecklenburg delays property tax update at least a year By April Bethea · Charlotte Observer · December 3, 2008
Many Mecklenburg homeowners will get a reprieve from larger tax bills as county commissioners agreed unanimously Tuesday to delay putting new tax values on properties until at least 2010.
CMS board seat attracts 22 candidates By Ann Doss Helms · Charlotte Observer · December 3, 2008
District 3 appointment jumpstarts changes in Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools leadership.
City studies ways to spur economy By Susan Stabley · Charlotte Business Journal · December 5, 2008
The city is weighing the role of government in supporting the local economy even as tax revenue is shrinking because of the downturn.
national:
Cities cut back, expecting shortfalls By Marisol Bello · USA Today · December 1, 2008
Battered by record foreclosures and falling tax revenue, cities are laying off workers, raising fees and closing libraries and recreation centers.
Beazer Homes sees ballooning losses Charlotte Observer · December 2, 2008
Struggling homebuilder Beazer Homes USA Inc. said Tuesday its fiscal fourth-quarter losses more than tripled as revenue plunged and its income tax provision ballooned.
Paulson considers new plan to resuscitate U.S. housing market By Robert Schmidt and Dawn Kopecki · Bloomberg.com · December 4, 2008
Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson is considering a new plan to reduce mortgage rates in another bid to revive the U.S. housing market, a government official said.
NORTH CAROLINA:
N.C. homeowners face steep increase in insurance rates By Mark Johnson · Charlotte Observer · December 3, 2008
Homeowners across North Carolina could face a steep increase in their insurance premium next year to help pay for damage to beach properties when the next major storm hits the coast.
Countrywide to refund 4,800 N.C. homeowners By Christina Rexrode · Charlotte Observer · December 4, 2008
Mortgage lender Countrywide Financial Corp. will refund $11.5 million to 4,800 N.C. homeowners under a settlement with the state banking commissioner, the commissioner's office announced today.
N.C. taking another look at incentives By Ken Elkins · Charlotte Business Journal · December 5, 2008
Look for some changes in the way North Carolina doles out economic incentives to new and expanding companies, says the author of a new study commissioned by the N.C. General Assembly.
Duke's solar plan gains support By John Downey · Charlotte Business Journal · December 5, 2008
Duke Energy Carolinas is moving closer to launching a program to place solar-energy panels atop the homes and businesses of some of its customers.
SOUTH CAROLINA:
Tax cuts largely to blame for S.C. budget crisis, economists say By John O'Connor · The Herald · December 3, 2008
The hundreds of millions of dollars that have been cut thus far this year from the state budget have more to do with recently approved tax cuts than the faltering economy, state economists say.
UNION:
Commissioners change water policy By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · December 5, 2008
The new Union County Board of Commissioners began overhauling the county's controversial water allocation policy Thursday, calling for two days of lawn watering per week for Union County customers.
New majority rescinds district representation, board expansion By Ritchie E. Starnes · The County Edge · December 5, 2008
With a new Union County Board of Commissioners' majority intact, the panel rescinded the previous majority's efforts to request that the state help create district representation and expand the number of commissioners.
YORK:
Stone: 19 acres now up for development By Jonathan Allen · Fort Mill Times · November 25, 2008
York County is moving closer to approving a rezoning request that will allow Herman Stone to develop the last 19 acres of a massive tract his family used to own along Hwy. 160 West.
New Lake Wylie subdivision planning to lure retirees By Matt Garfield · The Herald · November 29, 2008
A subdivision going up near Lake Wylie qualifies as news in itself, given the sharp downturn gripping the national homebuilding industry.
Dave Lyle traffic relief on way By Matt Garfield · The Herald · December 3, 2008
Drivers fed up with traffic snarls on Dave Lyle Boulevard are closer to getting some relief: Improvements finally have taken shape, in the form of added turn lanes, more left-turn signals and better traffic flow.
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REBIC e-News for November 26, 2008: CABARRUS:
Budget cuts pose threat to school goals By Justin Vick · Independent Tribune · November 23, 2008
State-mandated budget cuts come at a time when both of Cabarrus County's public school systems have set high goals to be among North Carolina's best districts.
LANCASTER:
By Christopher Sardelli · Lancaster News · November 24, 2008
Deborah Long has gone back to school.
School district hit with state budget cuts By Jesef Williams · Lancaster News · November 24, 2008
The Lancaster County School District is bracing itself for what appears to be a continuing gloomy economic trend.
MECKLENBURG:
Charlotte home prices decline further By Stella M. Hopkins · Charlotte Observer · November 25, 2008
Evidence of weakening Charlotte housing prices continued today with a popular measure of home-price appreciation showing the region's worst decline yet.
national:
HUD issues new mortgage rules to help consumers shop for lower cost home loans US. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development · November 12, 2008
For the first time in more than 30 years, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development today issued long-anticipated mortgage reforms that will help consumers shop for the lowest cost mortgage and avoid costly and potentially harmful loan offers.
UNION:
County racks up $657,000 in legal fees By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · November 22, 2008
Union County has spent about $657,000 on high-profile legal battles in the last two fiscal years, including $127,000 defending county commissioners from a federal investigation.
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REBIC e-News for November 21, 2008: CABARRUS:
Cabarrus officials mull sales tax hike By Eric Deines · Independent Tribune · November 14, 2008
As the state prepares to hand over more road infrastructure responsibilities to its counties and municipalities, the Cabarrus County Board of Commissions will seek legislation to raise the county's sales tax as a means to pay for road construction.
New UNC chancellor reconfirms NCRC commitment By Ben McNeely · Independent Tribune · November 17, 2008
Drumming up support - financial and otherwise - the new chancellor of UNC-Chapel Hill reconfirmed his institution's commitment to the North Carolina Research Campus.
Financial crunch is speeding big layoffs at NASCAR teams By Wilfredo Lee · Independent Tribune · November 17, 2008
The glitz and glamour surrounding NASCAR's championship-deciding race roared on at Homestead-Miami Speedway as if nothing was amiss.
Exit 49 in Cabarrus expected to grow in international status By Dave Yochum · Business Today · November 20, 2008
Concord tourism officials are talking about Exit 49 blossoming into a major tourist destination, complete with a variety of tourist attractions and hotels for every budget.
Green living show coming to arena By Josh McCann · Independent Tribune · November 20, 2008
Organizers expect about 100 exhibitors will dispense advise and information on environmentally friendly lifestyles during the first Carolina Living Green Expo in Concord this weekend.
LANCASTER:
No Christmas break for blue laws By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · November 20, 2008
Council voted against repealing the blue laws in the county through Jan. 4.
LINCOLN:
County adopts sweeping development regulations By Frank Taylor · Lincoln Times News · November 20, 2008
Development of property for businesses and homes in Lincoln County is changing dramatically.
Mecklenburg:
Authority wants to redo Savanna Woods By Nichole Monroe Bell · Charlotte Observer · November 16, 2008
The Charlotte Housing Authority wants to redevelop Savanna Woods, a 49-unit housing apartment complex off Park Road, into a larger, mixed-income community.
By Bea Quick · Charlotte Business Journal · November 18, 2008
Mecklenburg County has offered rebates since December on building permits for projects that comply with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design standards.
Hefty fines for political signs By Julia Oliver · Charlotte Observer · November 18, 2008
Citations send a costly message to campaigns that violated the city's newly strengthened ordinance.
Parks Helms: 'I'm going to miss the give-and-take' By April Bethea · Charlotte Observer · November 18, 2008
Commissioner reflects on three decades as public official.
A tax for every mile you drive? Toll booths on I-77? By Mark Johnson · Charlotte Observer · November 20, 2008
Imagine your car's odometer as a taxicab meter.
NORTH Carolina:
Perdue's Cabinet positions up for grabs By Ryan Teague Beckwith and Mark Johnson · The News & Observer · November 17, 2008
Who might Gov.-elect Beverly Perdue appoint to her Cabinet?
N.C. ranks 27th in state competitiveness Charlotte Business Journal · November 19, 2008
North Carolina does not rank among the top half of the 50 states when it comes to luring businesses and providing high standards of living for workers, according to a new report.
Panel suggests higher taxes, fees for road needs By Gary D. Robertson · StarNewsOnline.com · November 19, 2008
Higher taxes or fees for drivers and vehicle owners could be on the horizon if the Legislature agrees with recommendations tentatively approved Wednesday by a state transportation panel.
Military construction boom prompts pleas for help By Henry Cuningham · Fay Observer · November 20, 2008
Army, Navy and Marine officials on Wednesday begged civilian contractors to help them tackle the massive amount of military construction in southeastern North Carolina in coming years.
Charlotte projects languish; N.C. pours $270 million in Fayetteville roads By Mark Johnson · Charlotte Observer · November 21, 2008
The N.C. Board of Transportation is pumping $270 million in road money into Fayetteville, the hometown of Transportation Secretary Lyndo Tippett and of a key legislative ally, weeks before Tippett leaves office.
SOUTH CAROLINA:
S.C. developer says schools should be centerpiece of homebuilding By Joy L. Woodson · The Herald · November 20, 2008
Businessman Don Tomlin is proposing a new way for developers statewide to do business: Make sure large-scale residential projects have schools linked to them.
UNION:
The Woods appeals Weddington decision By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · November 16, 2008
The Woods developers are going to court over Weddington's decision to nix a private sewer plant for the upscale subdivision.
Mortgage Crunch: Not as tight as you think By Tiffany Lane · Enquirer Journal · November 16, 2008
Even with the economy in an upheaval, getting a mortgage isn't as hard as one might think.
By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · November 18, 2008
In one of the last official actions of this Union County Board of Commissioners before new members take office, officials took steps to restructure Union County's vast sums of debt in the current financial storm.
City doubles size of historic district By Jason deBruyn · Enquirer Journal · November 19, 2008
More than a dozen property owners cheered the council after it approved doubling the size of the historic district.
By Cliff Harrington · Charlotte Observer · November 20, 2008
A Union County group announced Wednesday that it hopes to develop a 5,000-acre business-industrial-educational park about 35 miles southeast of Charlotte, off U.S. 74.
WORLD:
Experts call for end of flushing toilets on World Toilet Day By Ian Rakowski · News.com.au · November 19, 2008
As the world celebrates World Toilet Day today, sanitation experts have called for the end of the flushing dunny to save water and provide fertilizer for crops.
YORK:
Lake Wylie coping with growing pains By Charles Perry · The Herald · November 16, 2008
Matt Cullen moved to Lake Wylie for the same reasons he says many people do.
Railroad lease helps Fort Mill downtown project By Jonathan Allen · Fort Mill Times · November 19, 2008
Appearances matter.
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REBIC e-News for November 14, 2008: CABARRUS:
Budget shortfall not affecting Research Campus plans By Ben McNeely · Independent Tribune · November 6, 2008
Because of a state budget shortfall, UNC president Erskine Bowles asked the 16 constituent campuses in the UNC system to cut 4 percent from their budgets this year.
Great Wolf: Resort 60 percent complete By Bridgett Baker · Independent Tribune · November 6, 2008
Indoor water park resort company Great Wolf Resorts Inc. said construction on its resort at Interstate 85 and Bruton Smith Boulevard was 60 percent complete and on budget.
Hayes promises to keep serving public By Eric C. Deines · Independent Tribune · November 9, 2008
With just a month left on Capitol Hill, Congressman Robin Hayes said he's ready to serve the Cabarrus County community in a different capacity, likely through philanthropic endeavors.
Concord completes downtown master plan By Eric Deines · Independent Tribune · November 10, 2008
An updated master plan for downtown Concord calls upon public and private investment to make several facelifts to downtown over the next five years and beyond.
County's rezoning efforts stalled By Eric Deines · Independent Tribune · November 12, 2008
The Cabarrus Planning and Zoning Commission is stalled on a rezoning vote that would finalize a massive land-use plan for Concord's eastern future growth area.
GASTON:
Grant will help committee bring sidewalks, paths and trails to Belmont By Diane Turbyfill · Gaston Gazette · November 9, 2008
Walkers will have a safer path to travel thanks to a state grant.
LANCASTER:
Mick Mulvaney talks election, issues, his future By Christopher Sardelli · Lancaster News · November 10, 2008
Mick Mulvaney began his journey into politics years ago.
County agrees to maintain two more roads By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · November 14, 2008
County Council recently approved taking care of more roads.
Mecklenburg:
African-American population growth will drive local politics By Tara Servatius · Creative Loafing · November 4, 2008
The election was Tuesday, but Wednesday was the first day of the rest of Anthony Foxx's political career.
Could Anthony Foxx be Charlotte's next mayor? By Cheris Hodges · Creative Loafing · November 4, 2008
In the last dozen years, several contenders have tried unsuccessfully to knock Pat McCrory from his mayoral throne.
Planners look at new parks for center city By Nichole Monroe Bell · Charlotte Observer · November 9, 2008
A team of consultants and city and county planners is close to presenting a 10-year plan for bringing more parks to the center city and South End.
Conservation for older neighborhoods? By Karen Sullivan · Charlotte Observer · November 9, 2008
Charlotte is exploring whether to follow Chapel Hill, Greensboro and Raleigh in allowing conservation districts in some older neighborhoods.
Charlotte-area lot prices latest to take hit in real estate By Stella M. Hopkins · Charlotte Observer · November 9, 2008
Significant changes in the third quarter reflect steep declines as median prices fell nearly 11%.
NATIONAL:
How to buy from sinking homeowners MSN · September 11, 2008
There are a few active buyers in the real-estate market these days, but every one of them seems to be looking to buy a foreclosure or a short sale.
The housing mess: 5 'dumb' questions By Marilyn Lewis · MSN · November 6, 2008
When it comes to the housing meltdown, there are no stupid questions.
Housing: Set for a rally in 2010? By Trisha Riggs · The Ground Floor · November 11, 2008
The for-sale new-home housing market could pick back up by 2010, followed by a rally in the resale market in 2011, predicted an industry analyst at ULI's recent annual fall meeting in Miami.
Which cities will weather the downturn? By G. Scott Thomas · Bizjournals.com · November 12, 2008
This sentence - or one like it - can be found in almost any prospectus: "Past performance is no guarantee of future results."
HUD unveils new rules for mortgages By James R. Hagerty · Wall Street Journal · November 13, 2008
The Department of Housing and Urban Development announced rules aimed at helping Americans shop for mortgages more effectively, but said it lacks powers to enforce those rules.
NORTH Carolina:
Web video of House proceedings to cost $1.3 million By Benjamin Niolet · The News & Observer · November 13, 2008
Delivering Web video of state House of Representatives sessions would cost $1.3 million in the first year and $500,000 a year after that.
UNION:
Environmentally friendly paving? By Jason deBruyn · Enquirer Journal · November 9, 2008
Black is the new green in Indian Trail.
By Jason deBruyn · Enquirer Journal · November 11, 2008
The Waxhaw Board of Commissioners, town staff and representatives from Clarion Associates looked to town residents Monday to give input on a plan that Mayor Duane Gardner called a "guiding document" for future development in Waxhaw.
Technicality delays Waxhaw hearing By Jason deBruyn · Enquirer Journal · November 12, 2008
A contentious public hearing over a new shopping center will have to wait.
YORK:
Despite economy, sales in Springfield are robust By Jonathan Allen · Fort Mill Times · November 12, 2008
One of the brightest spots in the regional housing market happens to be located in Fort Mill at the high-end Springfield neighborhood.
Fort Mill to expand by 196.8 acres By Jonathan Allen · Fort Mill Times · November 12, 2008
The town extended its corporate limits east of I-77 again Monday night on a pair of 5-2 votes.
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REBIC e-News for November 7, 2008: GASTON:
Gastonia losing key partner for downtown hotel project By Ken Elkins · Charlotte Business Journal · November 7, 2008
Plans for the $30 million Gastonia hotel and conference center have been all but canceled.
Mecklenburg:
Study: Sharp drops in local housing stats Charlotte Business Journal · November 7, 2008
The Charlotte metro market recorded the lowest number of closings for single-family homes in five years during the third-quarter, according to a report by Metrostudy.
County board delays key vote in revaluation By April Bethea · Charlotte Observer · November 6, 2008
Mecklenburg County residents will have to wait a little longer to find out whether the county's planned reassessment of property values will take place in 2009, or be pushed back at least one year.
No McCrory, but still hope for a closer Raleigh relationship By Erik Spanberg · Charlotte Business Journal · November 7, 2008
Charlotte business leaders didn't lose all hope for gaining access to Raleigh with Mayor Pay McCrory's failed gubernatorial bid this week.
Perdue pledges to work for Charlotte By Kirsten Valle · Charlotte Observer · November 7, 2008
In her first public appearance as governor-elect, Bev Perdue on Thursday pledged to invest in Charlotte's roads, turn around the state's economy and bridge gaps between cities and political persuasions.
NORTH Carolina:
State might ask cities to maintain more roads Charlotte Observer · November 3, 2008
Shifting burden of upkeep on 5,000 miles poses questions.
UNION:
Union working to provide basic needs: Carpenter By Ken Elkins · Charlotte Business Journal · November 6, 2008
Jim Carpenter, president of the Union County Chamber of Commerce, says a lot of the county's problems can be categorized under one heading: growth management.
Debt crisis to delay schools 'D' for a year By Ritchie E. Starnes · The County Edge · November 7, 2008
Monday night's (Nov. 3) Union County Board of Commissioners' meeting was unusually brief, but ominous.
By Billie Ball · Enquirer Journal · November 7, 2008
As the national financial crisis hits home, Union County officials can't say if the county government is due for layoffs.
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REBIC e-News for November 5, 2008 (Special Election Edition): CABARRUS:
By Bridgett Baker · Independent Tribune · November 5, 2008
Amid the unwavering support of family, friends and volunteers, Congressman Robin Hayes (R) conceded his 8th District seat to two-time Democratic challenger Larry Kissell, ending a 10-year run in U.S. House of Representatives.
All three incumbents cruise, return to General Assembly By Josh McCann · Independent Tribune · November 5, 2008
All three Republican incumbents representing Cabarrus County in the General Assembly earned re-election by decisive margins Tuesday.
CHESTER:
Chester County approves paying for jail renovations with 1-cent sales tax By Charles D. Perry · The Herald · November 5, 2008
The future of Chester County's dilapidated jail shifted from bleak to promising Tuesday.
GASTON:
County returns four Republicans to commission By Michael Barrett · Gaston Gazette · November 5, 2008
Red ruled Tuesday on the Gaston County Board of Commissioners, as Republicans swept all four races to maintain their monopoly on the panel.
Hoyle again survives Republican sweep By Daniel Jackson · Gaston Gazette · November 5, 2008
N.C. Sen. David Hoyle was the only Democrat to win a majority of Gaston County's votes Tuesday in a narrow victory over real estate agent Kathy Harrington.
Gaston commissioner wins state House seat in a nail-biter By Michael Barrett · Gaston Gazette · November 5, 2008
Republican Pearl Burris Floyd won a seat on the N.C. House of Representatives with a narrow victory over her opponent Tuesday.
LANCASTER:
Mulvaney wins District 16 Senate seat By Christopher Sardelli · Lancaster News · November 5, 2008
Republican Mick Mulvaney has won the state S.C. Senate District 16 race over Democratic opponent Mandy Powers Norrell.
By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · November 5, 2008
Lancaster County voters said yes to a new sales tax that will help pay for construction of a new courthouse.
2 incumbents lose seats on City Council By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · November 5, 2008
Linda Blackmon-Brace has once again taken a seat on City Council.
Long makes history in District 45 By Jesef Williams · Lancaster News · November 5, 2008
Republican Deborah Long was leading Democrat Fred Thomas at press time in the race for the S.C. House District 45 seat, which covers parts of Lancaster and Northern York counties.
Mecklenburg:
N.C. House, Dist. 99: Mackey carries out political comeback in statehouse win By Clay Barbour · Charlotte Observer · November 5, 2008
Democrat Nick Mackey completed his political resurgence Tuesday, wining a seat in the N.C. General Assembly from Mecklenburg County.
N.C. Senate: Graham, Dannelly, Clodfelter prevail By Karen Garloch · Charlotte Observer · November 5, 2008
Three incumbent state senators from Mecklenburg County - Malcolm Graham, Daniel Clodfelter and Charlie Dannelly - will return to the N.C. General Assembly.
Democrats increase their majority on county board By April Bethea · Charlotte Observer · November 5, 2008
Democrats widened their majority on the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday, sweeping all three at-large seats, with about 96 percent of the results in.
Voters OK bonds for county, city projects By Julia Oliver · Charlotte Observer · November 5, 2008
Voters passed $477 million in bonds Tuesday that will allow city and county governments to pay for a range of civic projects, with 96 percent of precincts reporting.
NORTH Carolina:
Democrats take 5 of 7 Council of State races By Mike Cranston · StarNewsOnline.com · November 5, 2008
Democrats won five of seven Council of State races Tuesday, riding the wave of support that the party gained higher on the ballot.
Democrats keep hold of NC Legislature By Emery P. Dalesio · StarNewsOnline.com · November 5, 2008
The excitement surrounding President-elect Barack Obama's campaign and Democratic wins for several top posts in North Carolina wasn't enough to help the party increase its majorities in the General Assembly.
Dalton wins race for lieutenant governor Charlotte Observer · November 5, 2008
Walter Dalton has helped the Democrats hold on to the lieutenant governor's office.
Perdue tops McCrory in race to lead N.C. By Mark Johnson · Charlotte Observer · November 5, 2008
Lt. Gov. Bev Perdue rode a national tide of Democratic support Tuesday to become the first female governor of North Carolina.
UNION:
Minsk, Scholl elected to school board By Tamara Wilson · Enquirer Journal · November 5, 2008
Laura Minsk picked up 41, 045 votes, with David Scholl taking the remaining seat with 41, 953 votes.
Blackwood turns back Cognac challenge By Jason deBruyn · Enquirer Journal · November 5, 2008
"I appreciate how nice the people were to me and the confidence they placed in me," Blackwood said.
YORK:
Lindemann keeps seat; Williams ousts Lee in York County Council By Charles D. Perry · The Herald · November 5, 2008
Paul Lindemann contended his drunken driving arrest wouldn't affect the election.
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REBIC e-News for October 31, 2008: CABARRUS:
Bureau seeks reserve funds for marketing By Josh McCann · Independent Tribune · October 26, 2008
Tourism officials will seek to access reserve funds next month to help Cabarrus County's travel industry weather the national economic downturn.
LANCASTER:
Three candidates uncontested in bids County Council seats By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · October 27, 2008
There are three uncontested County Council races this year.
Mulvaney, Norrell weigh in on tone of Senate campaign By Christopher Sardelli · Lancaster News · October 27, 2008
Republican Mick Mulvaney and Democrat Mandy Powers Norrell have spent the last few weeks responding to a variety of attacks - some posted online, others mailed as fliers to households or placed under car windshields.
Planners OK 'town center' rezoning By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · October 29, 2008
In a close rezoning vote, developers got the go-ahead to build homes, medical offices and retail stores at U.S. 521 and Collins Road in Indian Land.
Mecklenburg:
By Jim Morrill · Charlotte Observer · October 27, 2008
A week before an election that will shape Charlotte's next mayoral race, Democrat Anthony Foxx said Monday that he's running - regardless of whether he has an incumbent to face.
Is now the time for Mecklenburg to revalue? By Fred Clasen-Kelly · Charlotte Observer · October 27, 2008
Not long after William McKee moved into his east Charlotte house seven years ago, he watched his property taxes nearly double to about $2,650 a year.
Outerbelt opening faces further delays By Steve Harrison · Charlotte Observer · October 29, 2008
The outerbelt in northeast Mecklenburg won't open Friday as hoped, and the contractor won't give a finish date for the 5.5-mile segment.
National:
Everhouse: A new plan for post-Katrina homes By Paul Sedan · Christian Science Monitor · October 23, 2008
John Sawyer's vision for the next phase of Katrina recovery revolves around a simple home.
Living with the giant down the street By Marina Strauss · Globe and Mail · October 24, 2008
Liz Westman had reason to be anxious when Wal-Mart set up shop in Okotoks, Alta., in late 2002.
New-home sales up 2.7% in September By Martin Crutsinger · Charlotte Observer · October 27, 2008
Sales of new homes recorded an unexpected increase in September as median home prices dropped to the lowest level in four years, the Commerce Department reported Monday.
By Kate Linebaugh · The Wall Street Journal · October 28, 2008
With credit drying up and new-vehicle sales slumping to a 25-year low, car dealerships from New Jersey to California are going out of business at an accelerating pace, threatening greater economic pain for communities around the country.
NORTH Carolina:
Cities resist taking on state roads By Ray Gronberg · HeraldSun · October 28, 2008
A study commissioned by the General Assembly's leaders appears likely to recommend asking North Carolina's cities to pick up more of the tab for maintaining the state's roads.
YORK:
Local housing slump hurts the working man the most By Staff Reports · The Herald · October 26, 2008
Nobody has to tell York's Dale Pfeil the economy stinks.
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REBIC e-News for
October 24, 2008: CABARRUS:
Swing voters are key in 8th District battle By Lisa Zagaroli · Charlotte Observer · October 21, 2008
Doug Conner hates this the most - starting over again.
LANCASTER:
Local teacher's group forms to back Mulvaney Senate bid Lancaster News · October 24, 2008
A group of local teachers has formed Teachers for Mulvaney, a group that says it's committed to advancing state Rep. Mick Mulvaney's efforts to put more dollars into the classroom and improve academic achievement for South Carolina school children.
Candidates address issues at last forum before By Christopher Sardelli · Lancaster News · October 24, 2008
Candidates from the five major local elections answered questions at a political forum Tuesday night sponsored by Duke Energy, the Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce and The Lancaster News.
Lancaster County Hispanic growth 25th fastest in U.S. By Gillian Gaynair · The Herald · October 24, 2008
Lancaster County's Hispanic population is growing at a rate that ranks it 25th among the nation's counties.
Mecklenburg:
Board wants buffer so I-77 drivers won't see funeral home Charlotte Observer · October 19, 2008
A McEwan funeral home plans to locate in the former Prime Sirloin restaurant building at 19601 Statesville Ave. (U.S. 21).
Dunlap chosen for county board By April Bethea and Fred Clasen-Kelly · Charlotte Observer · October 21, 2008
Mecklenburg Democrats picked George Dunlap on Monday to represent District 3 on the county commission until 2010, casting him as the likely deciding vote in ongoing partisan fights over property values and an uptown ballpark.
Police seek anti-crime registry of landlords By Julia Oliver · Charlotte Observer · October 22, 2008
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department wants all Charlotte landlords to register with the city and be responsible for reducing crime at problem properties.
Charlotte criticized for water use By Bruce Henderson · Charlotte Observer · October 22, 2008
Charlotte could save millions of dollars and billions of gallons a year by making more efficient use of its water, says a report to be released today.
Vote for the bonds, even in tough times Charlotte Observer · October 24, 2008
Charlotte and Mecklenburg County are asking voters to allow them to borrow $477 million, over time, for parks, streets, neighborhood improvements and housing.
National:
Home prices seem far from bottom By Vikas Bajaj · The New York Times · October 16, 2008
The American housing market, where the global economic crisis began, is far from hitting bottom.
EPA faulted on waterway pollution from sprawl By Dina Cappiello · Associated Press · October 16, 2008
The Environmental Protection Agency is failing to stem the pollution washing into waterways from cities and suburbs, the National Academy of Sciences reported Wednesday.
Builders help buyers to help themselves By Dawn Wotapka · The Wall Street Journal · October 18, 2008
Home builders are working with potential buyers, enrolling them in programs that address everything from credit-report errors to managing debt, in order to raise their credit scores so they can qualify for a mortgage or a better interest rate.
Millions of homeowners are in desperation mode -- help them, or this crisis gets a lot worse By Joseph Nocera, The New York Times · AlterNet · October 19, 2008
Now that the government has "saved" Wall Street -- at least for the moment -- hasn't the time finally come to save Main Street too?
U.S. foreclosure filings soar 71% By Alan Zibel · Charlotte Observer · October 23, 2008
The number of homeowners ensnared in the foreclosure crisis grew by more than 70 percent in the third quarter of this year compared with the same period in 2007, according to data released Thursday.
Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2009 ULI · October 23, 2008
Real estate markets in the United States could hit to bottom in 2009 and then flounder for much of 2010, according to the Emerging Trends in Real Estate® 2009 report by ULI and New York-based PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.
NORTH Carolina:
$2 billion shortfall possible for N.C. By Benjamin Niolet · Charlotte Observer · October 23, 2008
The first crisis to face the next governor is already here.
Charlotte Business Journal · October 23, 2008
The number of foreclosures in North Carolina fell nearly 27 percent in September when compared with a year ago.
SOUTH Carolina:
New interstate to Myrtle Beach? Charlotte Observer · October 23, 2008
South Carolina is now clear to start buying land for a new interstate to the Grand Strand.
Union:
Developers appeal ruling upholding APFO By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · October 21, 2008
Developers have formally appealed a judge's ruling upholding Union County's adequate public facilities ordinance, or APFO.
Board OKs water allocation plan By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · October 21, 2008
A majority of Union County commissioners passed a county plan for dividing up limited water resources Monday, despite staunch opposition from two board members.
By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · October 22, 2008
The national economic meltdown is hitting home in Union County.
Economy meltdown sears county budget The County Edge · October 24, 2008
The nation's economic downturn has Union County cinching its belt with a number of capital projects in jeopardy.
YORK:
York County bond sale ensures funds for projects By Charles D. Perry · The Herald · October 24, 2008
Some York County building projects, including prison and road construction, won't be delayed because of a worldwide credit crisis.
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REBIC e-News for October 17, 2008: CABARRUS:
Philip Morris chooses a broker for land deal By Eric Deines · Independent Tribune · October 13, 2008
Philip Morris USA has selected the land brokerage firm that will market the 2,000-acre Concord property the company will exit by the end of 2010.
Democrats gaining ground in Cabarrus this year By Josh McCann · Independent Tribune · October 16, 2008
More Democrats and unaffiliated voters than Republicans have registered in Cabarrus County in 2008, according to Board of Elections figures.
CHESTER:
East Coast Ethanol to build plant By Charles D. Perry · The Herald · October 14, 2008
A $230 million ethanol plant and more than 40 jobs are coming to Chester County, according to the company building the plant.
LANCASTER:
Forbes magazine: Lancaster 'most vulnerable town' By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · October 15, 2008
Local officials realize that many folks in Lancaster County are struggling right now.
Mulvaney, Powers-Norrell debate school vouches, economic development By Matt Garfield · The Herald · October 15, 2008
Mick Mulvaney and Mandy Powers-Norrell renewed their heated state Senate contest Tuesday night at a candidates forum in Indian Land, but the best evidence of the animosity in this race could be found outside in the parking lot.
Liens filed against developers By Jenny Harley · Lancaster News · October 17, 2008
Edenmoor is apparently not paying its bills.
Mecklenburg:
County could delay dozens of building projects By April Bethea · Charlotte Observer · October 15, 2008
Mecklenburg County could delay dozens of construction projects - including 20 for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools - as officials anticipate borrowing less money in bad economic times.
Don't delay vital road projects in Charlotte area Charlotte Observer · October 15, 2008
From Jim Carpenter, president of the Union County Chamber of Commerce, in response to the Citistates installment in Sunday's Observer.
At least 10 look to represent District 3 By April Bethea · Charlotte Observer · October 17, 2008
The field of potential candidates lining up to succeed Mecklenburg County commissioner Valerie Woodard keeps growing.
Huntersville's Miller hopes inexperience is good By Heather Somerville · Huntersville Herald · October 17, 2008
Experience is a watchword in most political campaigns, but Huntersville's Dempsey Miller is a candidate who's hoping to use his inexperience in politics to his advantage.
City planners turn their focus to Catawba area By Andrew Batten · Huntersville Herald · October 17, 2008
As more homes go up and more moving vans stream into the Mountain Island area, Charlotte-Mecklenburg planners are developing a plan to control future growth.
How crunch is hitting commercial real estate By Susan Stabley · Charlotte Business Journal · October 17, 2008
Vulture funds are circling the Queen City, eyeing office buildings, warehouses and strip malls stuck with loans maturing in a nearly frozen credit market.
National:
Bailout pushes mortgage rates up By Stephanie Armour · USA Today · October 16, 2008
A recent jump in mortgage rates could jeopardize any turn-around in the housing market as home buyers face steeper loan costs.
New home construction falls to 1991 levels MSNBC · October 17, 2008
Construction of new homes plunged by a bigger-than-expected amount in September as builders slashed production yet again, putting the country on track to build the fewest homes this year in more than six decades.
NORTH Carolina:
N.C. slashes highway spending by $50 million By Mark Johnson · Charlotte Observer · October 17, 2008
North Carolina's road-building and transportation budget is being cut by $50 million, a number that could easily grow to $200 million for the year, as state officials react to declining tax revenue.
SOUTH Carolina:
Wealthy New Yorker backing S.C. races By Dan Huntley · Charlotte Observer · October 14, 2008
A New York City developer is the largest contributor to South Carolina's legislative campaigns this year - giving hundreds of thousands of dollars to candidates from Fort Mill to Charleston.
Water quantity concerns rival those of quality of S.C. resources conference By Joey Holleman · The Herald · October 15, 2008
S.C. Attorney General Henry McMaster expects the state will win its water rights lawsuit against North Carolina but acknowledges the Supreme Court's decision could take years.
Union:
Stallings council supports route 18a By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · October 14, 2008
The Stallings Town Council Monday flipped on its support for one of two proposed routes for the Monroe bypass, despite stiff opposition from a board member and Mayor Lynda Paxton.
Marvin flips on mussel decision By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · October 15, 2008
Developer, one. Heelsplitters, zero.
The County Edge · October 17, 2008
Union County residents urged the Board of Commissioners to reject a consultant-recommended water allocation policy amid concerns that it favors future development over existing customers.
By Ritchie E. Starnes · The County Edge · October 17, 2008
Although the ink has not dried on the latest design for the Monroe bypass, a new and separate N.C. Department of Transportation plan has surfaced that shows a Marshville bypass.
By Ritchie E. Starnes · The County Edge · October 17, 2008
Less than a week after the Union County Board of Commissioners were blasted for considering a water allocation policy that put future development over existing water customers, the county has identified more water.
YORK:
Candidates disagree on council's climate By Charles D. Perry · The Herald · October 13, 2008
If District 7 voters believe Chad Williams, they'll see the York County Council as a tumultuous group of bickering politicians.
Rock Hill leaders back developers on Celanese property By Matt Garfield · The Herald · October 14, 2008
Developers planning to bring new life to the old Celanese property in east Rock Hill hope to get state tax credits available to help spur the redevelopment of former textile mill sites.
Fort Mill bypass at center of lawsuit By Charles D. Perry · The Herald · October 17, 2008
A developer is suing York County and the town of Fort Mill over their handling of a road project originally designed to cut through a planned subdivision.
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REBIC e-News for October 10, 2008: CABARRUS:
N.C. 3 Study: Cabarrus provided planning options By Eric Deines · Independent Tribune · October 7, 2008
A regional study of how best to expand N.C. 3 and foster development along the highway has garnered different opinions from Cabarrus County and Kannapolis.
LANCASTER:
Candidates focus on education, jobs in Senate District 16 race By Christopher Sardelli · Lancaster News · October 8, 2008
The two candidates for the state Senate District 16 seat are each focused on improving education, reducing unemployment and creating new jobs.
Mecklenburg:
By Nancy Stancill · Charlotte Observer · October 3, 2008
HomeArama, Charlotte's popular luxury home showcase, opens today at The Ranch, a new section of The Palisades, a large south Mecklenburg County development near Lake Wylie.
By Doug Smith · Charlotte Observer · October 7, 2008
Metropolitan, conceived more than eight years ago, is on its way to becoming a Next Big Thing for uptown dwellers and residents of neighborhoods that ring Interstate 77.
Charlotte freezes hiring as precaution By Julia Oliver · Charlotte Observer · October 8, 2008
The city of Charlotte has put a freeze on hiring and taken other steps to save money in preparation for a souring economy.
Meck. candidates talk of schools, services By April Bethea · Charlotte Observer · October 8, 2008
Candidates vying to be a Mecklenburg County commissioner or state Senator met Tuesday for three debates sponsored by the League of Women Voters.
By Jefferson George · Charlotte Observer · October 8, 2008
From Fortune 500 corporations to family-owned companies, businesses in the Charlotte region are scrambling to make sure they can keep getting money during the nation's credit crunch.
Charlotte home prices take sharp drop By Stella M. Hopkins · Charlotte Observer · October 8, 2008
The average price of Charlotte-area homes sold last month tumbled nearly 9 percent compared to last September.
Eastland Mall street work delayed By Julia Oliver · Charlotte Observer · October 10, 2008
Charlotte has indefinitely postponed a $4 million streetscape project near Eastland Mall because of uncertainty over the shopping center's future.
National:
Fast turnaround isn't expected for home prices By Alan Zibel · Charlotte Observer · October 4, 2008
The $700 billion bailout of the financial industry could help homebuilders and mortgage lenders, but is unlikely to bring fast relief to anybody trying to buy or sell a house anytime soon.
By Bill Fleckenstein · MSN · October 6, 2008
The banking system's meltdown will run its course soon enough.
SOUTH Carolina:
By Staff Reports · The Herald · October 6, 2008
If you want to know how your state representatives or senators voted on an important bill, chances are you won't be able to find that information.
Union:
By Cliff Harrington · Charlotte Observer · October 5, 2008
Three streams in western Union County show signs of severe pollution, and regulators who are investigating don't know yet how it happened.
By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · October 7, 2008
A contingent of Union County residents, many of them from western parts of the county, blasted county commissioners Monday for a water allocation plan they say unfairly favors new development.
Monroe pipeline will go forward By Jason deBruyn · Enquirer Journal · October 9, 2008
Fairview residents had a chance to blast the Monroe City Council, but that did them little good as a natural gas pipeline project through the town was unanimously approved.
Builder decries 'illegal' dictate By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · October 10, 2008
An attorney on Thursday accused a Marvin councilwoman of breaking the law in an effort to derail a development.
YORK:
York County Council OKs rules for controversial airport district By Charles D. Perry · The Herald · October 8, 2008
York County leaders held up their end of a controversial bargain to establish tighter zoning rules around the local airport.
County runs out of money to build roads By Charles D. Perry · The Herald · October 10, 2008
York County officials know the county doesn't have enough money to pay for its road-building program.
Lots of chances to meet candidates By Matt Garfield · The Herald · October 10, 2008
With the November election less than a month away, local candidates are preparing to face off in a host of political forums.
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REBIC e-News for October 3, 2008: CABARRUS:
Kannapolis bond plan hits another delay By Adam Bell · Charlotte Observer · September 30, 2008
The economic turmoil hitting the national also is being belt at the North Carolina Research Campus in Kannapolis, where plans to issue $95 million in self-financing bonds are on hold again, this time for a month and maybe longer.
GASTON:
Catawba River is focus of conference By Joe DePriest · Charlotte Observer · October 3, 2008
Water quality and protection on the Catawba River District is the focus of the third annual Economic Development Conference in downtown Mount Holly on Tuesday.
IREDELL:
Kohler plans to lay off 522 in Statesville By Joe Marusak · Charlotte Observer · September 30, 2008
Wisconsin-based Kohler Co. will close its Canac kitchen cabinetry division and lay off 522 workers at its Statesville plant next month because of the weak U.S. housing market, company officials announced.
Mecklenburg:
Charlotte's housing woes likely to widen By Peter St. Onge · Charlotte Observer · September 30, 2008
At a south Charlotte hotel Monday morning, before a seminar on real estate and the economy, several Realtors® approached Dot Munson, president of the Charlotte Regional Realtor® Association.
Cornelius staff working on new rules for rentals By Andrew Warfield · Huntersville Herald · October 1, 2008
The good news for Cornelius is that the lakeside town has apparently become something of a tourist destination.
Big, comprehensive plan in Town of Davidson's future By Heather Somerville · Huntersville Herald · October 1, 2008
Sometimes, a town must take a step back before it can move forward.
Slump in Charlotte home prices deepen By Stella M. Hopkins · Charlotte Observer · October 1, 2008
A popular measure of home appreciation today showed Charlotte-area housing prices took their sharpest drop in July.
Charlotte Chamber: Time to take a breath By Jefferson George · Charlotte Observer · October 3, 2008
With Charlotte-based Wachovia now in a bicoastal tug-of-war between Citigroup of New York and Wells Fargo of San Francisco, the head of the Charlotte Chamber talked about baseball this morning.
How to help research park grow? By Clay Barbour · Charlotte Observer · October 3, 2008
A group of urban development experts met in University City on Thursday to discuss strategies to better market University Research Park.
National:
Under strain, cities are cutting back projects By Mary Williams Walsh · New York Times · October 1, 2008
Cities, states and other local governments have been effectively shut out of the bond markets for the last two weeks, raising the cost of day-to-day operations, threatening longer-term projects and dampening a broad source of jobs and stability at a time when other parts of the economy are weakening.
NORTH CAROLINA:
$54 million awarded for road improvements By Staff Reports · Hickory Record · October 2, 2008
The N.C. Board of Transportation today awarded two contracts totaling $54.2 million to improve area highways in Lincoln, Catawba and Iredell counties.
SOUTH Carolina:
By Jenny Overman and Jonathan Allen · Fort Mill Times · September 24, 2008
The growing population is straining local parks and recreation programs across the township.
S.C. Senate race: Vouchers, Rich assailed on forum By Jenny Overman · Fort Mill Times · October 1, 2008
A campaign-oriented forum held by S.C. Senate candidate Mandy Powers-Norrell last week took a turn for the weird when her opponent, House District 45 Rep. Mick Mulvaney (R-Indian Land) and other GOP officials showed up.
Union:
By Cliff Harrington and Mike Torralba · Charlotte Observer · September 28, 2008
Union County's building industry has slowed dramatically.
Marvin lawsuit failure predicted By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · October 1, 2008
A court challenge of Marvin's controversial involuntary annexation should fail, according to village attorney Anthony Fox.
By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · October 1, 2008
A developer attorney said an appeal of a judge's ruling upholding Union County's adequate public facilities ordinance, or APFO, is forthcoming.
YORK:
By Staff Reports · The Herald · September 28, 2008
York County officials didn't decide to raise development fees out of the clear blue.
Rock Hill offers hope to aspiring homeowners By Matt Garfield · The Herald · October 2, 2008
Amid record declines in the national housing market, an affordable homes program in Rock Hill is gaining new momentum.
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REBIC e-News for September 26, 2008: CABARRUS:
Urban Concord: A tale of three or four cities Business Today · September 26, 2008
The City of Concord is morphing into a sprawling 50-square-mile metropolis centered on three or four mixed-use neighborhoods, the oldest being downtown Concord and the newest a project called Concord Gateway that will have 400,000 square feet of commercial space and 200 condominiums.
By James Nix · Independent Tribune · September 26, 2008
By her own admission, Leigh Brown is no tree hugger. Even so, the 33-year-old Realtor® recently became Cabarrus County's first EcoBroker.
IREDELL:
Lowe's cuts 2009 store openings By Jen Aronoff · Charlotte Observer · September 24, 2008
Faced with continuing shakiness in the housing market and overall economy, Lowe's plans to open about 40 fewer stores in 2009 than this year.
Mecklenburg:
Charlotte's economy: Where we stand By Doug Smith · Charlotte Observer · September 20, 2008
To judge the strength or weakness of a region's economy, economists look at many indicators.
The burgeoning business of medical offices By Doug Smith · Charlotte Observer · September 23, 2008
Health care development is emerging as a Next Big Think in the Charlotte area as activity slows in residential, industrial and commercial real estate.
National home-sale slump deepens in August By Stella Hopkins · Charlotte Observer · September 24, 2008
Nationwide, existing home sales in August fell 15 percent compared with a year earlier, and price declines accelerated as mortgage credit remained tight and foreclosures continued rising.
By April Bethea · Charlotte Observer · September 24, 2008
The Charlotte Knights say they may have to push back the opening date for a planned baseball stadium in uptown again, and are contemplating whether it makes "financial sense" to continue with the project at all.
Suppliers feel crunch of housing downturn By Katy Finger and Bea Quirk · Charlotte Business Journal · September 26, 2008
The national housing-market collapse is hitting home at National Gypsum Co.
National:
Some Ike victims may not be allowed to rebuild By Michael Graczyk and Cain Burdeau · Yahoo News · September 18, 2008
Hundreds of people whose beachfront homes were wrecked by Hurricane Ike may be barred from rebuilding under a little-noticed Texas law.
California home sales surge as prices plummet By Jacob Adelman · Breitbart.com · September 18, 2008
Home sales in California surged 13.6 percent in August as a flood of foreclosures drove down prices.
North Carolina:
Local experts say ARMs not solely to blame for crisis By Jason deBruyn · Enquirer Journal · September 23, 2008
Adjustable rate mortgages have been widely blamed for the current housing crisis, but blaming them solely might not paint the whole picture.
By Lisa O'Donnell · Winston-Salem Journal · September 24, 2008
With gas hovering around $4 a gallon, North Carolina residents are buying less gasoline and more fuel-efficient cars.
Developers offer a new Woods plan By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · September 24, 2008
Just weeks after Weddington blasted a private sewer plant for The Woods subdivision, developers want to push through at least some lots with a "more conventional approach."
County eyes plan to divvy up water supplies By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · September 26, 2008
County commissioners are considering a plan for divvying up Union's limited water that has sparked some debate on new versus old.
Union:
By Mike Torralba · Charlotte Observer · September 21, 2008
Union County, which has the highest per-capita debt of the state's biggest counties, might borrow more than $119 million next year, mainly to fund construction of new schools.
YORK:
Tega Cay clamps down on rentals By Jonathan Allen · Fort Mill Times · September 16, 2008
No one will be able to rent a home in Tega Cay for fewer than 90 days under a proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance.
By Jonathan Allen · Fort Mill Times · September 17, 2008
LakeShore, the project that is responsible for doubling the city's population since 2000, is nearly complete.
Growth slows in Fort Mill schools By Shawn Cetrone · The Herald · September 19, 2008
After years of surging growth, Fort Mill schools started classes last month with fewer new students than expected.
Enrollment, impact fees lower than expected By Shawn Cetrone · Fort Mill Times · September 19, 2008
After years of surging growth, Fort Mill schools started classes last month with fewer new students than expected.
Fee hike to help manage growth By Charles D. Perry · The Herald · September 22, 2008
People wanting to buy a new home in York County can expect to pay more after the county raises development fees next month.
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REBIC e-News for September 19, 2008: Cabarrus:
Charlotte Observer · September 14, 2008
News briefs for various Cabarrus County subjects.
Lancaster:
Mulvaney vows not to take money from millionaire By Matt Garfield · The Herald · September 16, 2008
Mick Mulvaney didn't support Sen. John McCain in the S.C. presidential primary, but he can sure sympathize with what McCain is going through on the campaign trail these days.
County Council approves plan for using revenues By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · September 17, 2008
County Council approved a plan Monday on how building permit revenue and taxes from homes appraised and sold in 2007 would be used for other county expenses.
Mecklenburg:
By Steve Lyttle · Charlotte Observer · September 15, 2008
Some of the Charlotte area's fastest-growing public school systems are still getting bigger, but the growth rate has slowed this year, officials say.
University Place: Radical idea changed Charlotte By David Perlmutt · Charlotte Observer · September 15, 2008
One morning last week, Doug Orr stood at the window of his 10th-floor room at the Hilton Charlotte University Place, gratified by what he way below.
Crisis rooted in towns like ours By Peter St. Onge · Charlotte Observer · September 16, 2008
Ten years ago, James and Carolyn Robinson purchased a modest Huntersville home at an interest rate far higher than what their credit score and income should have earned.
Local economy robust, UNCC forecaster says By Kerry Hall · Charlotte Observer · September 17, 2008
A day after a meltdown on Wall Street, UNC Charlotte economist John Connaughton told local business leaders he remained optimistic about the state's economic well-being, calling Charlotte's economy "robust."
Six communities eyed for annexation News14.com · September 19, 2008
Six communities in Mecklenburg County could be annexed by the city of Charlotte by the end of the year.
National:
Poof! There go Americans' dreams By Jon Markman · MSN · September 16, 2008
As one major financial institution after another succumbs to crushing losses this year, it is mourning in America for the hopes of the average working people who believed in the myth of stock ownership as a sure path to a better life now and a safe retirement later.
Housing construction falls to 17-year low MSNBC · September 17, 2008
Government data show construction of new homes and apartments fell by a larger-than-expected amount in August, pushing activity to the lowest level in 17 years.
Is Bank of America now too big? By Michael Brush · MSN · September 18, 2008
Is Bank of America too big to fail -- or is it just too big?
BofA claims success in halting foreclosures By Lisa Zagaroli · Charlotte Observer · September 18, 2008
A Bank of America official testified Wednesday that the company helped save 52,000 homes from foreclosure in the two months following its purchase of Countrywide, the troubled mortgage lender.
Crisis extends to older homeowners By Adrian Sainz · Charlotte Observer · September 19, 2008
An AARP study released Thursday challenges the perception that older Americans have been left out of the current real estate crisis because they have built up enough home equity to avoid delinquencies and foreclosure.
North Carolina:
Charlotte Observer · September 15, 2008
Election day is still about seven weeks away, but voting season starts today in North Carolina, as local elections offices begin mailing absentee ballots to those who have requested them.
Financial crisis leads counties to rethink strategies By April Bethea · Charlotte Observer · September 19, 2008
The upheaval on Wall Street is affecting local governments, with some officials rethinking how they'll borrow or invest money in coming weeks.
Union:
By Cliff Harrington · Charlotte Observer · September 14, 2008
With enrollment lower than expected, Union County Public Schools may give back some per-pupil funding received from the county for this school year, Superintendent Ed Davis says.
By Mike Torralba · Charlotte Observer · September 15, 2008
Union County's adequate public facilities ordinance, designed to slow residential development in fast-growing areas, has yielded $147,240 in fees from homebuilders in the last 23 months to help build schools in crowded areas.
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REBIC e-News for September 12, 2008: Cabarrus:
Cabarrus Co. releases top needs News14.com · September 9, 2008
The top needs for Cabarrus County mirror problems facing the rest of North Carolina.
Kellswater announces expansion plans By Ben McNeely · Independent Tribune · September 10, 2008
Kellswater is expanding on the western end of Kannapolis.
Union judge's decision may help Cabarrus By Eric Deines · Independent Tribune · September 10, 2008
Last week, a Union County Superior Court judge sided in favor of the county in a suit filed by developers who claim its adequate public facilities ordinance unlawfully imposes fees on their projects to help pay for school construction.
By Eric Deines · Independent Tribune · September 11, 2008
Concord City Council gave its OK for two economic development grants at the expanding International Business Park.
Cabarrus may adjust policy on incentives By Eric Deines · Independent Tribune · September 11, 2008
Some minor changes to the economic development grant policy of the Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners may allow the county to extend incentive grants to smaller, entrepreneurial businesses.
Gaston:
Some debating necessity of the Gaston parkway By Steve Harrison · Charlotte Observer · September 8, 2008
When Charlotte's outerbelt opened last decade, the loop transformed nearby countryside into suburbs.
Iredell:
By Joe Marusa · Charlotte Observer · September 7, 2008
Mooresville is getting tough with some of its largest developments, telling them to shore up their roads, curbs, sidewalks and storm drains or risk having their bonds pulled.
Lancaster:
County proposes 8.9 mil tax hike to pay for court deputies, security By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · September 10, 2008
The Lancaster County Courthouse burned down, and now residents' taxes are going up
Mecklenburg:
City takes new look at its sidewalk policy By Nichole Monroe Bell · Charlotte Observer · September 7, 2008
A battle over sidewalks in one south Charlotte neighborhood has the city re-evaluating how it decides which roads get sidewalks and which ones don't.
County wants leeway on borrowing money By April Bethea · Charlotte Observer · September 9, 2008
Mecklenburg County may change how it borrows money for construction projects after bond agencies warned that the county is not following all of its debt policy.
By Stella M. Hopkins · Charlotte Observer · September 10, 2008
The number of Charlotte-area houses, townhouses and condos sold last month through the Carolina Multiple Listing Services dropped 34.5 percent compared with August 2007, the steepest plunge yet in more than a year of declines.
By Bruce Henderson · Charlotte Observer · September 12, 2008
The recent rainfall is beginning to lift the Charlotte area out of a drought that has lasted for more than a year, according to a map of drought conditions released Thursday.
North Carolina:
Easley pushes stricter energy standards for buildings By Martha Quillin · The News & Observer · September 10, 2008
Gov. Mike Easley asked the N.C. Building Code Council on Tuesday to help make North Carolina one of the most energy-efficient states in the country by requiring better construction techniques.
Cash crunch compels DOT to halt hiring By Mark Johnson and Bruce Siceloff · The News & Observer · September 11, 2008
The N.C. Department of Transportation imposed a hiring freeze Tuesday, leaving nearly 1,700 jobs vacant because of uncertainty about payments from the federal government.
Transportation costs could shift to localities By Mark Barrett · Citizen-Times.com · September 12, 2008
Local governments may have to shoulder more of the burden of providing transportation in the state, the chairman of a high-level committee preparing to recommend major changes in North Carolina's transportation funding system said Thursday.
Union:
Appeal expected by developers in APFO case By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · September 6, 2008
Developers will likely appeal a judge's ruling upholding Union County's embattled adequate public facilities ordinance, or APFO, a builders' attorney said Friday.
Weddington says no to private sewer plant By Esther Robards-Forbes · Charlotte Observer · September 12, 2008
Weddington's town council unanimously decided Thursday not to allow a private sewer treatment plant to be built at The Woods, a luxury neighborhood.
York:
Security cameras added to amenities By Matt Garfield · The Herald · September 10, 2008
The apartment complex where Michael McEachern lives comes with all the usual amenities -- a swimming pool, laundry room, fitness center and free cable.
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REBIC e-News for September 5, 2008: Cabarrus:
By Adam Bell · Charlotte Observer · August 31, 2008
Kannapolis is several months behind in issuing $95 million in self-financing bonds connected to the North Carolina Research Campus.
Mills chief talks about what's ahead By Jen Aronoff · Charlotte Observer · September 4, 2008
As president of the Mills, the company behind Concord Mills and 16 similar mega-shopping centers in major metro areas across the country, it's Scott Mumphrey's job to keep up with where malls are headed.
Chester:
By Charles D. Perry · The Herald · September 4, 2008
Hoping to dispel rumors of a government takeover, Chester County leaders are asking residents to come to Fort Lawn tonight to talk about building a system of trails in the county.
Lancaster:
County required to maintain Sun City roads By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · September 3, 2008
County maintenance crews will eventually be seen patching streets in Sun City Carolina Lakes.
Mecklenburg:
Residents defend deed restrictions By Kirsten Valle · Charlotte Observer · September 4, 2008
When a high-end builder announced plans to build six homes on two lots in Jefferson Park, a southeast Charlotte neighborhood developed more than a half-century ago, some longtime residents were alarmed.
North Carolina:
Clay County voters reject real estate transfer tax By Julie Woodson · CarolinaNewswire.com · September 3, 2008
Clay County voters overwhelmingly rejected a real estate transfer tax referendum in a special Friday election called by the county commissioners.
Union:
Petition asks court to halt annexation By Mike Torralba · Charlotte Observer · August 31, 2008
More than 100 residents and at least one developer have asked Union County Superior Court to throw out an annexation that would nearly double the size of Marvin.
Will developers pay for Union County schools? By Mike Torralba · Charlotte Observer · September 4, 2008
A judge has upheld Union County's ordinance that can require developers in rapidly growing areas to share the coast of building new schools, attorneys for both sides said Thursday.
Less county land in floodplains By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · September 5, 2008
New state maps could clear the way for development on thousands of Union County acres that used to be floodplains.
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REBIC e-News for August 29, 2008: Cabarrus:
County readies to send notifications to residents for central area rezoning By Eric C. Deines · Independent Tribune · August 28, 2008
Landowners in the unincorporated part of the county included in a recent, major land-use plan can expect rezoning notifications for Cabarrus County.
Lancaster:
Installment-purchase plan up for a first vote Monday By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · August 25, 2008
County Council will vote Monday night on the first of three readings to use an installment-purchase financing plan to build a new courthouse.
Mecklenburg:
Public can weigh in on bond proposal By Julia Oliver · Charlotte Observer · August 24, 2008
The Charlotte City Council will hold a public hearing Monday on the biggest city bond package proposed in at least a dozen years.
Transportation needs carry jolting price tag By Kevin Cary · Charlotte Observer · August 24, 2008
A Huntersville official estimates it will cost $650 million to fulfill the town's transportation needs by 2030.
By Doug Smith · Charlotte Observer · August 25, 2008
Charlotte-based Weichert, Realtors-Rebhan & Associates has expanded into Statesville with the acquisition of Weichert franchise at 300 E. Broad St., Suite 103.
Area home prices are showing signs of life By Stella M. Hopkins · Charlotte Observer · August 27, 2008
Charlotte-area home prices show signs of strengthening even as a popular measure of home appreciation on Thursday registered a third consecutive decline.
By Doug Smith · Charlotte Observer · August 26, 2008
Light rails benefits aren't limited to South Boulevard.
Rain fills lakes, ends drought? By Bruce Henderson · Charlotte Observer · August 28, 2008
Heavy rain has filled local reservoirs, replenishing the Charlotte region's water supplies and making a major dent in the long-lasting drought.
County looks north for 1st development chief By April Bethea · Charlotte Observer · August 29, 2008
Mecklenburg County has tapped a Winston-Salem administrator for its newly created economic development director post.
North Carolina:
By John Hood · Carolina Journal Online · August 25, 2008
Brad Wilson, an executive at Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC, also chairs the 21st Century Transportation Committee.
Realtors® oppose Clay tax vote By Jordan Schrader · Citizen-Times.com · August 28, 2008
Realtors® and developers have spent more than $36,2000 - or $4.38 per registered voter - persuading Clay County voters to reject a tax on real estate sales.
South Carolina:
All residence halls now equipped with sprinklers By Arthur Takahashi · The Herald · August 24, 2008
Students who live on the Winthrop University campus can feel a little safer this year thanks to sprinkler systems installed in campus residence halls.
Union:
High demand for too little water By Mike Torralba · Charlotte Observer · August 24, 2008
Union County water customers have struggled under outdoor watering restrictions for more than a year - and there may be no end in sight, no matter the weather, officials say.
Weddington sewer plant draws fire Charlotte Observer · August 26, 2008
The town council made no decision during the fourth night of hearings on the private sewer treatment plant planned for proposed development The Woods.
Lawsuit challenges involuntary annexation By Ritchie E. Starnes · County Edge · August 29, 2008
Less than a week before the village of Marvin's controversial involuntary annexation of 1,455 lots was to officially take effect, a group of impacted residents filed suit alleging a technicality.
Developers press through housing slump By Ritchie E. Starnes · County Edge · August 29, 2008
Developers in Union County are feeling the pinch of a sagging housing market as builders struggle to stay afloat.
World:
Eco communities: Living the green life By Mark Tutton · CNN · August 29, 2008
The term "eco community" might conjure up an image of bearded hippies tending an allotment before sharing a mung bean stew.
York:
Edifice to build $80M high school in York By Doug Smith · Charlotte Observer · August 25, 2008
A new high school campus planned in York is so large -- 128 acres, 416,000 square feet -- that the Charlotte general contractor is approaching it as three projects in one: an academic area, an activities building and an athletic complex.
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REBIC e-News for August 22, 2008: Cabarrus:
Harrisburg plans land-use agreement with Cabarrus By Eric C. Deines · Independent Tribune · August 14, 2008
Like the City of Concord before it, Harrisburg is at the cusp of a land-use agreement with Cabarrus County that will determine where and how the city will grow.
Harrisburg wants to remain small town with core values By David Perlmutt · Charlotte Observer · August 17, 2008
Harrisburg wants to remain what it is: a small town in the shadow of Charlotte, with no pretense of big-city life.
Bruton Smith gets details on incentives By Adam Bell · Charlotte Observer · August 22 2008
Concord and Cabarrus County delivered to billionaire Bruton Smith on Thursday the proposed details of his $80 million incentives deal.
Mecklenburg:
Steady gains continuing for Charlotte industrial market By Susan Stabley · Charlotte Business Journal · August 15, 2008
Reasonably good shape. That's the current state of the metro Charlotte industrial market, according to the local office of Colliers Pinkard.
New year, no new mobile classrooms By Eric Frazier · Charlotte Observer · August 18, 2008
Maybe you should take a deep breath before you read this: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools isn't ordering new mobile classrooms for this year.
Charlotte could benefit in roads plan By Steve Harrison · Charlotte Observer · August 21, 2008
The U.S. Department of Transportation wants large cities like Charlotte to get federal money directly, and have the freedom to spend the funds on transit and road projects of their choosing.
North Carolina:
Real-estate appraiser regulation is a failure By Mitch Weiss · RockyMountTelegram.com · August 18, 2008
As soaring home prices set the state for America's great housing meltdown, a critical step in making sure those home sales were a fair deal - the real estate appraisal - was undermined from within.
New taxes urged for roads, bridges By Bruce Siceloff · The News & Observer · August 22, 2008
North Carolina will need new taxes to bolster sagging transportation revenue and tackle a backlog of bridge and highway needs, the chairman of a statewide study group said Thursday.
Towns without water conservation plans face penalty By Jon Ostendorff · Citizen-Times · August 22, 2008
State officials are cracking down on towns that haven't filed plans for conserving water during the drought, and the penalty could be as high as $10,000 a month.
South Carolina:
S.C. counties losing key recruiting ally? By Ken Elkins · Charlotte Business Journal · August 15, 2008
An S.C. political squabble over recruiting strategy may be cooling the Charlotte-area border battle.
Senate panel weighs school-funding revisions By Shawn Cetrone · The Herald · August 22, 2008
A state Senate committee charged with evaluating the way South Carolina's public schools are funded could by year's end recommend sweeping changes, said committee member Sen. Wes Hayes.
Union:
Judge now holds fate of APFO law By Billy Ball · Enquirer Journal · August 22, 2008
Union County's controversial adequate public facilities ordinance, or APFO, is in a judge's hands.
York:
Airport district closer to approval By Matt Garfield · The Herald · August 21, 2008
Neighbors fighting changes around the Rock Hill/York County Airport seized one of their final protest opportunities this week, imploring a city planning board to halt land rules they fear will drive down their home values.
Attorney: Lindemann victim of media's 'obsession' By Matt Garfield · The Herald · August 22, 2008
Hours before he was scheduled to appear in court on drunken-driving charges, York County Councilman Paul Lindemann filed a request for a jury to decide his fate.
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REBIC e-News for August 8, 2008: Cabarrus:
APFO lawsuit bound for court March 2009 By Eric C. Deines · Independent Tribune · August 1, 2008
A judge's decision last week will allow the lawsuit against Cabarrus County's adequate public facilities ordinance to move through the standard court process, tentatively set for March 2009.
Harrisburg council selects new town administrator By Jonathan E. Coleman · Independent Tribune · August 6, 2008
After more than an hour behind closed doors in executive session Monday, it took the Harrisburg Town Council less than two minutes to unanimously approve the hiring of a new town administrator.
Kannapolis growth area cut out of county land plan By Eric C. Deines · Independent Tribune · August 7, 2008
After concerns about a future growth area being limited by a major county land-use plan, the Kannapolis portion of the plan has been altered from the last version to be presented to the public.
Gaston:
Garden Parkway faces many uncertainties By Michael Barrett · Gaston Gazette · August 6, 2008
A celebration might be in order when the first leg of the Garden Parkway opens, possibly by 2015.
Iredell:
Mooresville hires town manager By Joe Marusak · Charlotte Observer · August 3, 2008
After a national search, town commissioners on Friday voted unanimously to hire a town manager who has run communities in Ohio for 30 years.
By Staff Reports · Charlotte Observer · August 6, 2008
Iredell County Manager Joel Mashburn told county commissioners Tuesday night that he will retire next year, according to reports in today's Statesville Herald-Landmark.
Lancaster:
Estridge seeks $400,000 for industrial park By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · August 4, 2008
Kershaw's industrial park isn't attracting a lot of interest from prospective tenants.
O'Brien to step down from council By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · August 4, 2008
Lancaster City Councilman Danny O'Brien announced Friday that he won't seek a fourth term.
DHEC official: Loud concrete plants should get quieter By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · August 4, 2008
Ron Garrett of the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control said he recently spent the night in a trailer near the Brookchase neighborhood in Indian Land.
Mecklenburg:
Area counties see boost in tourism By Mark Johnson · Charlotte Observer · August 6, 2008
Mecklenburg, Cabarrus and Union counties enjoyed some of the largest tourism traffic increases in the state last year and helped drive a 7.4 percent rise in tourism statewide, state officials announced Tuesday.
Troubled uptown condos auctioned off By Kirsten Valle · Charlotte Observer · August 8, 2008
The crowd gathered minutes before noon Thursday in a quiet hallway at the Mecklenburg County Courthouse.
National:
Moving
from the cities to the suburbs...and beyond
The current concern over soaring gas prices has raised serious questions about the sustainability of what we commonly consider "the American dream".
Official spending outpaces revenue By Dennis Cauchon · USA Today · August 1, 2008
State and local government spending has been rising three times as fast as revenue amid warnings from governors that their finances are nearing crisis stage.
Long Island express: The surprisingly short commutes of suburban New Yorkers By Wendell Cox · Newgeography.com · August 4, 2008
One of the most enduring urban myths suggests that most jobs are in the core of metropolitan areas, making commuting from the far suburbs more difficult.
North Carolina:
Study ranks state among worst for traffic jams, bad bridges StarNewsOnline.com · August 3, 2008
When it comes to urban road congestion and deteriorating bridges, North Carolina is one of the worst states in the country, according to a study released last week by The Reason Foundation.
Commuters longing to live near work By Jack Hagel · The News & Observer · August 5, 2008
When gas prices jump, people change their habits.
Ex-state official to serve 3 years By Benjamin Niolet and Dan Kane · The News & Observer · August 7, 2008
In pleading for leniency, friends and family of Boyce Allen Hudson cast the former state environmental official as a loud and pompous man who like to exaggerate his abilities and influence -- personality traits that led to his downfall.
Frugal drivers put road funds in peril By Bruce Siceloff · The News & Observer · August 7, 2008
Tax revenues on gas and car sales have dropped as North Carolinians cut back on driving -- and that means less money to cover steep increases in the cost of building roads and bridges.
By Bruce Siceloff · The News & Observer · August 8, 2008
A reorganization aimed at making the Department of Transportation more businesslike, transparent and accountable -- and more acceptable to its critics in the General Assembly -- was announced Thursday by State Transportation Secretary Lyndo Tippett.
York:
By Matt Garfield · The Herald · August 3, 2008
Hoping to get ahead of a problem that will only worsen in coming years, Rock Hill officials are exploring carpool lanes on Interstate 77 as one way to combat traffic congestion.
By Charles D. Perry · The Herald · August 3, 2008
York County leaders paid a consulting firm nearly $90,000 to figure out if the county needs more landfills.
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REBIC e-News for August 1, 2008: Lancaster:
Vaughn: Voter scare tactics may backfire By Jenny Hartley · Lancaster News · July 31, 2008
The price tag to build a new Lancaster County Courthouse may be scary to some people, says County Councilman Bryan Vaughn.
Mecklenburg:
$46,400 to live in Meck, more in Wake By Jack Betts · Charlotte Observer · July 28, 2008
How much money does it take to provide the basics for a family of four in Mecklenburg County -- and why does it cost more than $5,400 less than in, say, Wake County, the state Capital?
Charlotte area home prices slipping, again By Stella M. Hopkins · Charlotte Observer · July 29, 2008
Charlotte-area home prices posted a second month of declines, according to a popular home-value analysis released this morning.
Water use across N.C. 'inefficient' By Bruce Henderson · Charlotte Business Journal · July 31, 2008
Conservationists say that the way that N.C. manages its water will handicap its future.
National:
Funds
for highways plummet as drivers cut gasoline use
An unprecedented cutback in driving is slashing the funds available to rebuild the nation's aging highway system and expand mass-transit options, underscoring the economic impact of high gasoline prices.
South Carolina:
Newberry County video poker proposal draws opposition from state GOP leaders By John O'Connor · The Herald · July 29, 2008
State Republicans are criticizing a Newberry County proposal to ask voters about using video poker revenue to offset property taxes.
York:
Final decision nears on airport changes By Matt Garfield · The Herald · July 27, 2008
After three more months of talks and tweaks, Rock Hill and York County leaders appear close to approving new rules limiting development around the local airport.
Annexation doubles size of Fort Mill By Jonathan Allen · Fort Mill Times · July 29, 2008
Fort Mill doubled in size Monday, thanks to annexations and development agreements approved by the Town Council covering more than 5,000 acres.
Lindemann's campaign opponents: DUI arrest is off-limits By Matt Garfield · The Herald · July 31, 2008
Embattled York County Councilman Paul Lindemann hopes his recent arrest on drunken driving charges won't overshadow the fall campaign.
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REBIC e-News for July 25, 2008: Cabarrus:
Kannapolis' concerns may slow land plan By Eric C. Deines · Independent Tribune · July 19, 2008
The City of Kannapolis' concerns over a portion of Cabarrus County's land-use plan for 39,200 acres of unincorporated land in the eastern part of the county may slow the county's approval process, originally slated for August.
Construction consultant joins school board race By Justin Vick · Independent Tribune · July 24, 2008
Construction consultant Blake Kiger is willing to provide his expertise free of charge to fast-growing Cabarrus County Schools.
Is Kannapolis prepared for new future? By Kathy Nelson · Charlotte Business Journal · July 25, 2008
How will Cabarrus and Rowan counties and the surrounding region meet the work-force and education needs of the N.C. Research Campus in Kannapolis?
Lancaster:
Builders Supply Co. has adapted to change By Johnathan Ryan · Lancaster News · July 25, 2008
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