Graham Revitalization Economic Action Team Minutes

July 20, 2017

Welcome/Introductions

Recognition of Host/Sponsor

Robert Moody, Director welcomed everyone to the meeting and talked about some of the Graham County School initiatives. He made the group aware of the annual back to school supply drive and requested donations.

Rick Davis recognized Sue Dinnsen and Duke Energy for the sponsorship of the Annual Meeting. Ms. Dinnsen provided information on Neighborhood Energy Saver Program being started in Graham County. The program provides up to 16 energy-saving products at no cost for identified homes.

Rick Davis recognized the GREAT Board of Directors and expressed his appreciation for their service to GREAT and Graham County.

General Items

The minutes from May 18, 2017 GREAT meeting were approved by the Board of Directors.

Agenda was approved.

Business Items

Pam Shaffer, GREAT Treasurer presented the GREAT Financial Report

Reports/Discussion Items

Executive Director Rick Davis presented an overview of GREAT accomplishments for the Fiscal Year. The year resulted in several major projects being completed include the 21^{st Century Community Learning Center grant for afterschool programs, Graham County Asset Map Project, ARC Telecom Project, the Graham County Leadership Project. He noted the amount of volunteer time spent with GREAT and partner organizations that equated to $180, 218. A complete list of accomplishments is included in the attached Report to the Public. In addition, Mr. Davis asked the group to complete the handout requesting suggestions/ideas for projects for FY2017-2018.}

 

Guest Speaker

Matt Gannon, Regional Coordinator of Substance Use Initiatives with VAYA Health, provided information to the group on ‘Understanding the Opioid Epidemic’. His presentation provided alarming statistics concerning the use and abuse of prescription drugs in the US, NC and Graham County. Graham County statistics indicated that residents have 31% more opioid pills per person that the state average.

Announcements

Heath Emmons with the USFS provided information on the steps that the USFS will be taking during the eclipse to provide a safe environment for visitors to USFS property.

Executive Director Rick Davis provided information on the next Board of Directors meeting, the GREAT American Total Eclipse and the next GREAT meeting on September 21.

Adjourn