TO:          Marshall Town Board

FROM:     NC STEPS Communication Committee

Date:       May 19, 2008

RE:          Update and Overview of Strategic Plan

1. The Rural Center has approved Marshall's Economic Development Strategy.  The first phase of planning and developing the strategy is complete.  The next phase is to submit project proposals for fund release.
2. The NC STEPS steering committee is not an independent group but is a group assisting the Board of Alderman in planning for economic development and job creation in Marshall.
3. The grant is directly tied to economic development and job creation
   1. Every project in this grant must be tied to economic development and the creation of jobs
   2. The strategy of the steering committee lies in creating, supporting nurturing, and assisting business.
4. Goals
   1. Increase the goods and services in the town for residents and visitors.
   2. Preserve, expand and promote the rich arts, crafts and music traditions and the culture.
   3. Take advantage of the recreational opportunities and related economic benefits of the river, the island and the mountains
5. Objectives
   1. Develop and support the very Small Business Center
   2. Establish a Downtown Development Center
   3. Publish business-focused articles in local and wider markets to draw visitors and to show Marshall as a good place to do business.
   4. Develop and provide resources regarding low/now interest for façade improvements and building rehabilitation.
   5. Develop internet services.
   6. Develop and implement a communication plan
      1. Brochures to attract visitors and entrepreneurs to Marshall
      2. Create an effective web presence
      3. Promote and plan downtown events
      4. Coordinate with other groups
   7. Create signage on "approach roads to direct people to downtown and to welcome them to Marshall.
   8. Develop and maintain community assets-gathering places, parks, green space
   9. Work with all stake-holders to create a master plan for the island to draw visitors through events and recreational space.
6. Town responsibility to manage growth and development and improve quality of life.
   1. Develop a capital improvement plan
   2. Increase water capacity
   3. Update development ordinances
   4. Update comprehensive plan
   5. Develop design guidelines for new development
   6. Consistently enforce zoning and subdivision regulations
   7. Develop a parking plan
   8. Pursue relocating utility lines