Uncertainty Surrounds Economic Development
Plan not yet proposed for the development and marketing of Pelham Business Park, 161 hours still available in current Economic Developer contract
The Caswell County Board of Commissioners voted 5-2 to extend Ken Bowman's contract for economic development work during their March 16, 2026 meeting.
The Commissioners first entered into the contract in July of 2025. It allowed Bowman to work six months, or a maximum of 400 hours at a rate of $125/hour. According to Interim Deputy Manager Melissa Williamson, Bowman has worked 239 hours. Commissioners agreed to extend his contract to June 30, utilizing the remaining 161 hours.
Commissioners John Claggett and Finch Holt both voted "no." During discussion, Claggett asked if there had been any progress made on the website refresh or pursuit of grant funding he said was first mentioned in July. No one present offered an answer.
Bowman was not present at the March 16 meeting, but did provide his monthly report to the Commissioners at their March 2 meeting, prompting questions from Holt when he mentioned waiting for recommendations from Dewberry Engineering.
"When did all this get approved," Holt questioned. "I don't remember approving any of this."
