Idea Transcript
SMALL BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEMONSTRATION PROJECT McCormick County, South Carolina
UPPER SAVANNAH COG SC DEPARMENT OF COMMERCE SC RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
SMALL BUSINESS PLAN
MCCORMICK, SC
Plan Goals Promote community enterprise Assist new business start-ups Lead business owners to existing programs and services Encourage the growth of small business in rural communities
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this plan is to accelerate economic development in McCormick County, using existing expertise and resources to encourage small business success. •
Small Business Development Assistance
•
Tourism Promotion: This part includes the completion of an assessment of existing tourist features and events in the in the county, opportunities, and methods for encouraging the development of various tourism based small business initiatives.
Given the transformational nature of many South Carolina rural economies, new attention has been focused on small business or entrepreneurial development as the foundation of the State’s new economy. As interest in entrepreneurship has grown, a host of new initiatives have sprouted at the federal, state and local levels. As recently as November, 2003, state leadership moved to create a Small Business Ombudsman position in the Department of Commerce. It is hoped the position will provide directed support to entrepreneurs seeking assistance from numerous initiatives on the state level. In August, 2003 representatives from numerous federal, state, and local agencies and organizations began holding meetings to discuss issues dealing with the small business climate in McCormick County and to suggest strategies for future economic development success. This report and its associated strategies were formulated as a result of such meetings.
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MCCORMICK COUNTY PROFILE In 2000, McCormick County’s population was 9,958, ranking 46th among the 46 South Carolina counties in terms of population size. From 1990 to 2000 McCormick County's population increased by 12.3 percent (an increase of 1,090 people), for a ranking of 23rd among the 46 counties in terms of population growth over the last decade. In McCormick County in 2000, 0 percent of the population lived in urban areas and 100 percent of the population lived in rural areas. Of the 9,958 people who live in rural McCormick Count, approximately 2.3 percent live on farms, while the remaining 97.7 percent live in non-farm environments. South Carolina and McCormick Population 1900-2000 Census Year 1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 Census Year 1990 2000
South Carolina 1,340,316 1,515,400 1,683,724 1,738,765 1,899,804 2,117,027 2,382,594 2,590,713 3,120,729 South Carolina 3,486,703 4,012,012
McCormick County N/A N/A 16,444 11,471 10,367 9,577 8,629 7,955 7,797 McCormick County 8,868 9,958
South Carolina Community Profiles 2002-2003.
Population by Age In 2000, a total of 9,958 people were reported as living in McCormick County. Of these: • • •
19.5 percent of the population were under age 18 (1,937 people); 64.0 percent were age 18 to 64 (6,376 people); 16.5 percent were age 65 and over (1,645 people).
In 2000, the largest age group in the county was the 50 to 54 years olds, with 746 people, representing 7.5 percent of McCormick County’s population. The second largest age group was the 35 to 39 years olds, with 739 people and 7.4 percent of the population. People in the 35 to 54 age range were born during the "Baby Boom" (from 1946-1965). In Census 2000, McCormick County had 2,918 baby boomers, representing about 29.3 percent of the county population (in _____________________________________________________________________________________________ 3
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the state of South Carolina, baby boomers made up 29 percent of the population). Nationally, the baby boomers represented 28 percent of the population. Population by Age and Sex In South Carolina in 2000, 21.4 percent of the total population (858,244 people) were over age 55. Of the population over age 55, 56.4 percent were female and 43.6 percent were male. In McCormick County, 30 percent of the total population (2,992 people) were age 55 and over in 2000. Of those ages 55 and over, 53.4 percent of the population were female and 46.6 percent were male. Population by Race The question on race for Census 2000 was changed from the question on race for the 1990 Census. Respondents in 2000 were given the choice of selecting one or more race categories to indicate their racial identities. Therefore, data on race from the 2000 Census is not directly comparable with data from 1990 or earlier. In McCormick County, 44.8 percent (4,459) of the total population reported their race as white, 53.9 percent (5,365) reported their race as black or African American, 0.3 percent (29) reported their race Asian, and the remaining 1 percent (105) reported their race as American Indian, Native Hawaiian, some other race, or two or more races. Income The per capita income in South Carolina in 1999 was $18,795, below the national per capita income of $21,587. In McCormick County, the per capita income was lower than that for the state at $14,770. South Carolina has a higher percentage of households having incomes less than $10,000 than the national average. In 1999, 11.8 percent of households in South Carolina reported an annual household income of less than $10,000, compared with 9.5 percent of households in the United States. In McCormick County, 17.2 percent of households reported incomes less than $10,000 in 1999. South Carolinians were behind the national average for households with an annual income of $100,000 or more in 1999. 8.1 percent of households in South Carolina reported an annual household income of $100,000 or more, compared with 12.3 percent of households in the United States. In McCormick County, 5.1 percent of households reported incomes greater than $100,000 in 1999.
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Employment Of the population 16 years and over in South Carolina, 63.4 percent were in the labor force in 2000 and 36.6 percent were not in the labor force. Among those in the civilian labor force, 94.1 percent were employed and 5.9 percent were unemployed. Looking at the population 16 years and over in South Carolina in 2000, males were more likely than females to be in the labor force. While 69.8 percent of all males were in the labor force in 2000, only 57.5 percent of females were. In McCormick County, 42.2 percent of males and 45 percent of females were in the labor force. McCormick County's percentage of unemployed civilians was 5.8, lower than that for the state. The statewide percentage of unemployed members of the civilian labor force increased slightly from 1990 to 2000 - from 5.6 percent to 5.9 percent. In McCormick County, the percentage of unemployed civilians in the labor force decreased from 8.6 percent in 1990 to 5.8 in 2000. Education In 2000, 76.3 percent of South Carolina’s adult population (age 25 and over) had graduated from high school, an increase from 68.3 percent in 1990. McCormick County also showed an increase in its percentage of high school graduates, from 52.5 percent in 1990 to 66.1 percent in 2000. 20.4 percent of South Carolina's adult population held a bachelor's degree in 2000, an increase from 16.6 percent in 1990. The percentage of the population holding a bachelor's degree in McCormick County increased from 7.1 percent in 1990 to 16 percent in 2000. Towns and Communities of McCormick County The communities in McCormick County are divided into three political subdivisions: Incorporated, Unincorporated - Special Purpose Tax District (SPTD), and Unincorporated. Incorporated These communities (officially towns or municipalities) have set political boundaries and are governed by their owns mayors and councils. This document includes them for information and background purposes only. The three incorporated towns include McCormick, Parksville, and Plum Branch. McCormick, incorporated in 1882, (pop. 2,659 - 2000 census) is the official county seat of McCormick County. It currently has zoning and sign regulations and levies property taxes to provide additional services for its citizens. McCormick’s Commission of Public Works (CPW) provides electricity, water and sewer services to the residents of the Town of McCormick and properties in the County. Because of the water and sewer infrastructure, all of the public educational buildings, multiple unit apartment buildings, several residential subdivisions, most of the industrial sites and county offices are located within the city limits (a one-mile radius which yields an area of approximately 2,000 acres). The town has a post office and 99 percent of the _____________________________________________________________________________________________ 5
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roads are maintained by the state of South Carolina. Since 1988, in excess of $3 million has been invested in the commercial business district by town officials, property owners, and others in an effort to return it to its early 1900’s appearance. This viable business center is split by the Savannah River Scenic Highway (U.S.221/SC28) and will be promoted as a discovery site on the Nature Route of the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor. The incorporated area of Parksville, (2000 census - pop.120) encompasses 502 acres (.785 sq. miles) with approximately 106 housing units. This historic community has a limited number of commercial structures, historic homes from the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, newer homes, as well as properties that support farm animals. The railroad and the Savannah River Scenic Highway (U.S.221/SC28) split the town. Its roads are maintained by the state and it does not levy property taxes. It has a post office and is the only incorporated town in Georgia or South Carolina that physically sits on the shoreline of Lake Thurmond. The incorporated area of Plum Branch, (2000 census - pop.98) encompasses 240 acres (.375 sq. miles) with approximately 40 housing units. This community was moved to this location for access to the railroad in the 1880’s. Most of the historic commercial buildings remain. The housing includes historic and newer construction. The Plum Branch school provides early and preschool education. The town has limited land use restrictions in place. The roads are maintained by the state and the town does not levy property taxes. Plum Branch has a post office. The Savannah River Scenic Highway (U.S.221/SC28) and railroad split the community. Unincorporated Area - Additional Communities Other communities exist throughout the County and are governed by the McCormick County Council. Towns that developed along the railroad and are located on the Savannah River Scenic Highway include Clarks Hill, Modoc, Mt. Carmel, and Willington. Even though their populations are small, many have post offices. Although two were previously incorporated, McCormick County now governs them. Savannah Lakes Village, established in 1990, is a 3,987-acre planned recreational/retirement community on Lake Thurmond. When completed, sewer and water will service over 5,100 home sites. Their non-profit Property Owners Association (POA) governs the operation and maintenance of their facilities and enforces their covenants and restrictions that are filed in the county courthouse. The roads belong to McCormick County and the residents are served by the McCormick Post Office. This development was created to increase the tax base and thus provide an economic boost to the county by increasing its population. Clarks Hill has lost most of its historic buildings. It has a post office and limited commercial services that cater to Lake Thurmond visitors and the local residents. It is served by county water and the county and the state maintain the roads. Modoc has a post office and limited commercial services that provide goods for local residents and visitors to Lake Thurmond and the Sumter National Forest. It is served by county water and the county and the state maintain the roads. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ 6
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Mt. Carmel (previously incorporated) is a National Historic District. It has a post office and two commercial businesses and is served by county water. The county and the state maintain the roads. Willington (previously incorporated) is listed as one of South Carolina’s 11 most endangered historic places. It has no post office and has limited county water service. The county and the state maintain the roads. Other historical communities which do not have post offices, have limited or no commercial services, and have churches or old school buildings that serve as the community centers include but are not limited to: Bethany, Bordeaux, Buffalo, Dowtin, Liberty Hill, Red Row, Rehoboth, Sandy Branch, White Town, and the Troy area.
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Current Business Inventory Business Name
Address
Location
Accommodations Bar-Mel Inn Hickory Knob State Park McCormick Motel Savannah Lakes Resort and Marina
Rt. 3 Box 329 Rt. 1 Box 199-B 813 E. Gold St. 101 Village Dr.
McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick
Accountant Aaron L. Watson, CPA
110 S. Main St.
McCormick
Attorney Frank E. Harrison, ATT. Greg Seigler, ATT. John Erick Sward, P.A.
115 E. Augusta St. P.O. Box 1852 114 N. Main St.
McCormick McCormick McCormick
Automotive Allen’s Automotive and Welding Carolina M.A.R.S Duffies Gulf Hometown Auto Parts Jones Exxon McCormick Car War Morrah’s Garage Murray’s Amoco and Garage Perrin’s Exxon Pro Shine Car Wash Raceway Reggie’s Body Shop Ronnie’s Automotive Whites BP Wilson’s Exxon
RR. 3 Box 3070 421 Sextant Ln. 200 S. Mine St. 205 N. Main St. P.O. Box 69 406 N. Mine St. Rt. 1 Box 134 Cedar Hill Rd. P.O. Box 594 902 W. Gold St. 712 E. Gold St. Hwy. 378 E. RR. 2 Box 119a 106 W. Gold St. E. Gold St.
McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick Plum Branch McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick
Banking and Financial Alliance Financial, LLC BB&T Better Loan of McCormick Central Carolina Bank Eddies Tax Service Greenwood Financial Services H&R Block Regions Bank The Little Tax Shop Security Finance
205 Jeffrey Ln.. 200 E. Augusta St. P.O. Box 713 Hwy. 7 at Hwy. 378 202 Brown St. P.O. Box 1746 220 S. Main St. 407 E. Gold St. P.O. Box 1324 110a N. Pine St.
McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick
Communications McCormick Messenger
120 S. Main St.
McCormick
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Savannah Valley Cablevision, Inc.
5 Petigru Circle
McCormick
Computers and Technology DCM Computersmart McCormick Images The Scribe
201 Main St. 202 S. Maple St. 204 Milford Place
McCormick McCormick McCormick
Education John De La Howe School Long Cane Academy McCormick County School District Piedmont Technical College
Rt. 81 N. 1302 Overbrook Rd. 821 N. Mine St. 407 E. Augusta St.
McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick
Food and Beverage ABC Package Store AM/PM ABC Package Store Bladon’s Grocery Bo-Bo’s Bowick’s Produce Market BP Outlet Bussey’s Grocery Farris ABC Fast Point Food Stores Food Lion McCormick Market Hwy. 378 Package Store Johnny’s Quick Stop Kozy Kat Korners La Cantina Lance Inc. Peanut Man McCray House McCormick Drive-In Melissa’s Hot Spot Orange Spot Old Country Store Parsons Grocery Rick’s Package Shop Scooby’s Quick Shop Smiths Grocery W&B Convenience
Rt. 1 Box 56 P.O. Box 883 P.O. Box 311 800 S. Mine St. P.O. Box 11 E. Gold St. P.O. Box 150 P.O. Box 906 201 N. Mine St. 710 S. Main St. 610 W. Gold St. P.O. Box 519 Hwy. 378 E. Rt. 2 243 Fairway Dr. Rt. 1 Box 351 123 N. Main St. Corner Hwy. 378/221 Rt. 3 Box 7 Hwy. 10 and 28 600b N. Mine St. 129 W. Gold St. 902 S. Main St. Rt. 2 Hwy 378 E. 600a Mnie St. Hwy. 378 W. Rt. 1 Box 40 Hwy. 28
Clarks Hill McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick Modoc McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick Clarks Hill McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick Clarks Hill Clarks Hill
Funeral Homes McCormick Memorial Chapel, Inc. Seibert’s Memorials Walkers Funeral Home
Hwy. 285 P.O. Box 1487 514 S. Main St.
McCormick McCormick McCormick
Government Clemson Extension Service 201 E. Augusta St. McCormick _____________________________________________________________________________________________ 9
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McCormick County Administrator McCormick County DSS Town of McCormick, Mayor & Co. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Rt. 2 Box 84 AAA 215 N. Mine St. P.O. Box 306 Rt. 1 Box 12
McCormick McCormick McCormick Clarks Hill
Industry Georgia Pacific Milliken, MC. Plant Mount Vernon Mills Reigel Consumer Product Div.
117 Pine St. 1119 S. Main St. Hwy. 28 Rt. 2 Box 1-a
McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick
Insurance Brown Insurance Farm Bureau Forest View Manor Hugh C. Brown, Insurance Agency State Farm Insurance Co.
112 E. Augusta St. Hwy. 378 W. 141 Callison Hwy. 112 Augusta St. 129 n. Main St.
McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick
Medical/Dental Lewis Chiropractic Savannah Lakes Medical Center R. Jay Lagroon, DMD PA McCormick Family Practice McCormick Healthcare Strom’s Drug Inc.
401 E. Gold St. 100 Holiday Rd. Rt. 4 Box 198b 219a N. Mine St. 1 Holding Rd. 122 S. Main St.
McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick
Non-Profit Friends of McCormick County Library Guardian Ad Litem Helping Hands United Humane Society of McCormick County Light of Life Church Lutheran Hospice of Upper Savannah McCormick Childrens Home McCormick County Lions Club McCormick County Literacy Association McCormick County Rotary Club McCormick County Senior Center McCormick Gold Rush. Inc. MCMUG (Mc. Mac Users Group) Mental Health Assoc. of McCormick New Bordeaux Assoc. (POA) Our Place
P.O. Box 1567 P.O. Box 1637 N. Main St. P.O. Box 900 Rt. 2 Box 128 BC 118 Augusta St. P.O. Box 154-C 207 Hickory Way P.O. Box 1079 204 Milford Place 1300 S. Main st. P.O. Box 938 204 Milford Place P.O. Box 425 Rt. 1 14 New Bordeaux 110 N. Main St.
McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick
Personal Services Artistic Hair Salon The Beauty Palace Betty Faye’s Beauty Shop
902 S. Main St. 901 S. Main St. Hwy. 28 (at light)
McCormick McCormick Plum Branch
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CC&B Asociates Christie and Associates Cunningham Barber Shop Debbie’s Beauty Shop Freeman’s Barber Shop Murrel & Vaugn Neicy’s Barber Shop New Images Nichols Beauty Shop Patsy’s Interior Designs Regi-Sha Nitik Shanelle’s Hair Fashions
108 W. Gold St. 338 Grandview Point 117 Virginia St. P.O. Box 454 121 N. Main St. Corner 378/221 S. Main St. 113 S. Pine St. P.O. Box 144 P.O. Box 633 908 S. Main St. 118A N. Main St.
McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick Plum Branch McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick
Printers and Publishers McCormick Images McCormick Messenger
202 S. Maple St. 120 S. Main St.
McCormick McCormick
Real Estate & Construction Alpine Construction Bill Boyd Realty Cooper Realty Guiney Construction, Inc. Johnson Realty M&K Realty, Auction, Antiques McCormick Housing Centers Palmetto Builders and Designers, Inc. Posillico Contracting, Inc. Realty Executive/ Sunset Realty Gilchrest Construction Co. Savannah Lakes Village-Homes Unireal Construction Winn Construction Co. Zingo Construction Co.
206 Brassie Ln. P.O. Box 1837 ? Rt. 4 Box 195 Hwy. 378 West Hwy. 378 West Rt. 3 Box 19 P.O. Box 700 P.O. Box 1745 Hwy. 378 West 109 S. Main St 101 Village Dr. Hwy. 378 West Hwy. 221 Collier St. Rt. 1 Box 1AA
McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick Plum Branch McCormick
Recreation Bakers Creek State Park Dorn Mill Center for History and Arts Hamilton Branch State Recreation Area Hickory Knob State Park McCormick Arts Council Plum Branch Yacht Club, Inc. Savannah Lakes Village POA Wood Widgeon Farm
Rt. 1 Box 219 N. Main St Rt. 1 Box 97 Rt. 4 Box 199-B 115 S. Main St. P.O. Box 370 40 Holiday Rd. P.O. Box 7
McCormick McCormick Plum Branch McCormick McCormick Plum Branch McCormick Plum Branch
Restaurants China I Clarks Hill Herring Hut Edmund’s Sandwich Shop Good Ole Home Cooking
229 S. Main St. P.O. Box 4899 131 W. Augusta St. P.O.Box 956
McCormick Parksville McCormick McCormick
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Hardees Huddle House Michael J. Escoes @ The Parrot Cove On the Hill Bar and Grill Our Season Bakery and Restaurant Plum Branch Yacht Club Roy's Barbecue Rubbie’s Barbecue and Brew Savannah Lakes and Marina Subway of McCormick
101 S. Main St. 308 S. Mine St. 101 Village Dr. Hwy. 378 West 118 W. Gold St. P.O. Box 370 Secondary Rd. 139 917 W. Gold St. 101 Village Dr. 201 S. Mine St.
McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick Plum Branch McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick
Retail/ Shopping Awards Inc. Bat Cave Thrift Shop Blow Gun Unlimited Bobs Antiques and Things Ben and Jans Mini Mall Book Town CBS Fashions Clarks Hill Gift Shop The Cloth Hut Creations Creative Designs D.E.L. Creations Dream Machines Depot, Inc. Dollar General Everdays Pay Day Evelyn’s Flowers Family Dollar The Fashion Shop Farmers Supply Fishing Village Mini Mall For a Time Unlimited, Inc. Four Seasons Florist and Gift Shop Gables Corner The Gallery Shop at MACK Habitat General Store Haskell’s Furniture and Appliance Heaven 'N Hull In Good Taste J&N Jewlery Jasimines Keepsakes@Our Place Kelly’s Saw Shop Linda Mcintosh Antiques Large & Lovely Lucky’s Beauty Supply McAllister & Sons
232 Brassie Dr. P.O. Box 875 Rt. 1 Box 4B 118 Main St. 112 N. Main St. Hwy. 81 108 N. Main St. P.O. Box 12 P.O. Box 804 175 Tara Dr. 317 5th Av. P.O. Box 330 Rt. 3 Box 14 202 Main St. 516 W. Gold St. 108 E. Augusta St. 103 Deason St. 316 S. Mine St. P.O. Box 161 RR. 2 Box 78 6 S. Depot St. P.O. Box 188 KB 119 N. Main St. RR. 2 Box 36A 115 S. Main St. 155 N. Mine St. 116 Main St. 305 Edgefield St. 126 N. Main St. 111 E. Augusta St. Rt. 1 Box 173 N. 110 S Main St. Hwy. 378 West 47 Hill Dr. P.O. Box 1324 108 S. Main St. P.O. Box 100
McCormick McCormick Modoc McCormick McCormick Willington McCormick Modoc McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick Plum Branch McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick Plum Branch McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick Modoc McCormick McCormick Mt. Carmel
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McCormick Floral & Gift McCormick Market Modoc Merchantile Monroe Furniture and Upholstery Palmetto Angler and Convenience Pink Earth Savannah Lakes Ships Store Unique Furnishings Video Palace Weddings In A Box Whites Hardware White Optical Yesterdays Best Other Services Abbeville Pest Control B.F. Edmonds Brewer Enterprises Custom Cut Lumber Elite Landscaping Gibson’s Enterprises Healthy Interests Henderson Electric Hodges Pulpwood Company Holden’s Vending Service Industrial Maintenance and Services Jimmies Service Center Joe’s Service Center McCormick Electric MJM Industries Parrot Fish Upholstery Pick-Up Sanitation Service Powell’s Elite Lawn Care Robertson’s Plumbing Seigler’s Welding Service Service Laundry Machinery Inc. Smart and Sons Sales and Misc. Service Smith Motor Co. Tommy Lowe’s Electric and Appliance Tom Wall Trucking Co. Village Electronics Other Services continued Wall Grading Wall Rd. Storage Gingerich Gas Lakelands Gas McCormick Oil Co.
MCCORMICK, SC
P.O. Box 1656 610 W. Gold St. Hwy. 28 Church St. 508 W. Gold St. Rt. 1 Box 150 99 Village Dr. 902 S. Mine St. 200 S. Main St. Rt. 1 Box 1AA 210 S. Mine St. Corner 378/221 P.O. Box 473
McCormick McCormick Modoc Plum Branch McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick
136 Grandview Dr. Rt. 1 Box 2 205 N. Mine St. RR. 1 Box 126 1032 Gwd. Hwy. 127 N. Pine St. 124 Charlotte Dr. 101 Woodlawn Rd. Rt. 1 Box 49 P.O. Box 124 Carolina St./ N. Mine P.O. Box 87 P.O. Box 1717 Hwy. 378 W. 202 S Main St. 4 Depot St. Rt. 1 Box 294 P.O. Box 400 P.O. Box 59 Rt. 2 Box 50 408 N. Mine St. P.O. Box 166 Rt. 1 Box 17 Hwy 28 P.O. Box 4808 Rt. Box 57 207 Hickory Way
McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick Clarks Hill McCormick Clarks Hill McCormick Plum Branch McCormick McCormick McCormick Plum Branch McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick Plum Branch McCormick Parksville McCormick McCormick
Rt. Box 43B Wall Rd. P.O. Box 1012 209 N. Mine St. 714 S. Mine St.
McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick McCormick
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Identifying service gaps as well as opportunities depends on the accurate reflection of current conditions related to local commerce. No specific formula exists for determining the probability of success or failure for any single business venture within the County. However, current data on resources, demographics, and commerce reveals the opportunity for a number of new small business enterprises.
Business Develop ment Opportunities Lodging Grocery Natural resource based product initiatives (landscaping materials and services) Heritage Corridor connected services/tourism related businesses Auto related services (repair and body work) Open space dependent initiatives (tree farms, natural resource products) Eateries/Restaurants Farm resource commodities (specialty products such as milk, cheese, eggs, etc.) Specialty retail (clustered; ie. office supplies) Appliance sales and repair service Web design, sales, and computer repair Pet services (kennels, grooming, etc.)
Numerous types of data may weigh heavily on the decision to start or expand a small business. In addition to information on the community and businesses that currently share the market, data concerning external factors affecting the business climate may be necessary. Preparation of a small business climate index or matrix specific to McCormick could provide a usable source of the information relevant to the development or expansion of business within the County. The Small Business Survival Committee's Small Business Survival Index 2003 provides a good example of the categories that should be associated with the climate index. •
• •
Taxes. In addition to taxes on personal income, capital gains, property, sales and estates, the index also weighs taxes on Internet access and gasoline, unemployment and healthinsurance tax rates and whether states require super-majority votes in order to impose or increase taxes. Electricity costs. Every business uses electricity, and how it is regulated or taxed by a state can have a significant impact on a business's bottom line. Workers' compensation costs. The higher a state's workers' comp rates, the less friendly it is to labor-intensive business.
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• • • •
MCCORMICK, SC
Total crime rate. Businesses have a powerful disincentive to establish themselves or expand in states that cannot adequately protect life and property. Right to work. Right-to-work laws generally mean labor unions cannot enforce work stoppages. Number of bureaucrats. It almost goes without saying that more bureaucrats mean more burdensome regulations. State minimum wage. The minimum wage set by some states actually is higher than the federal minimum.
Economic Development Incentives The Enterprise Zone Act (the "Act") was enacted on April 4, 1995. Prior to this date, available economic recruitment incentives were primarily designed for large companies that were willing to invest millions of dollars in our state. The exact incentive package offered to each of these companies often varied on a project-by-project basis. The Act represents a major change in corporate recruiting philosophy by our legislature. The Act substantially lowered the threshold for obtaining employer incentives. It expanded availability of these incentives to smaller businesses primarily by de-emphasizing the importance of large capital investments and focusing instead on the number of jobs created in this state. The major policy impetus behind this change is in recognition that small to medium sized businesses are worth recruiting for their own sake. A local economy with a large array of small to medium sized employers is better able to withstand a national or regional recession, or the decay of a particular industry. The most useful incentives available to small and medium sized businesses under the Act are: • •
Job Development Fees ("JDF") which can be used to offset the cost of constructing or acquiring real property to be used by the business. Job Tax Credits ("JTC") which reduce the company's state income tax liability.
There are numerous other incentives available in this state, including various forms of real and personal property tax relief, incentives for employing recipients of Aid to Families with Dependent Children, favorable financing alternatives, employee retraining assistance, etc. However, practical experience has proved that the JDF and JTC incentives are the most accessible incentives available to small and medium sized companies. Job Tax Credits The Act gives employers a $1,000 credit against their state income tax liability for each new full time position created. Employers get this annual credit for five years beginning in their second year of operations. Total cumulative JTCs over the first six years for each new job created are _____________________________________________________________________________________________ 15
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$5,000. However, the company can only use the credits to reduce its annual state income tax bill by up to 50 percent. If the company does not have enough state income tax liability to use the credits in the year accrued, they can be carried forward and used against future state income tax liability for up to fifteen years. Job Development Fees This program allows the company to retain funds that would otherwise be paid to the South Carolina Department of Revenue ("DOR") as employee withholding for their individual state income tax liability. For the first fifteen years after the employer meets the requirements under its Revitalization Agreement, the employer can retain between 2% and 5% of its employees' wages.
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CULTURAL, HISTORIC, AND NATURAL COMMUNITY ASSETS Region 8 - Old 96 District McCormick County and its neighbors are located within South Carolina Tourism Region known as the Old 96 District. Accordingly, the Old 96 District Tourism Commission is responsible for promoting tourism and travel in the District’s five counties: Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick. The Commission currently maintains a web site with information on the District’s attractions, history, accommodations, and events. http://www.sctravelold96.com/ Savannah /River Scenic Highway The Savannah River Scenic Highway provides a pleasant drive through the upland section of South Carolina, affording scenic views, glimpses of life in the rural South, and opportunities to experience a special sort of Southern hospitality. Byway visitors receive a friendly wave as they pass by, some fishing tips at a local market, a casual lecture on barbecue traditions, or a lesson on the state’s role in the Revolutionary or Civil War. Along this Scenic Highway, numerous interesting towns and villages are found where visitors can stroll, enjoy festivals and special events, visit historic sites and attractions, and find diverse shopping and eating establishments. South Carolinas Fresh Water Coast A visit to South Carolina's Freshwater Coast will introduce you to a rural area of South Carolina that played a significant part in shaping our country's history. Located in the western Piedmont of northern SC, bordering the Savannah River, you will find small communities that developed on lands of the Cherokee. When visiting this area of South Carolina, you will find historic sites and museums relating to the Revolutionary War, French & Indian War, Civil War, agricultural successes and defeats, famous statesmen, and institutions of higher learning and religion. Two scenic highways run through the towns that prospered and others that did not. Numerous recreational activities are available on our rivers, as well as on the lakes that were created during the mid 1900's for power generation and flood control. HISTORIC RESOURCES Joseph Jennings Dorn House Architect James C. Hemphill, a draftsman for Thomas Edison, designed the home of SC State Sen. Joseph Jennings Dorn. Built in 1917, it was the first brick home in McCormick and one of the most ornate. It features original decorative woodwork, paneling and wainscoting which was milled at Senator Dorn's lumber mill. It was the "smart house" of the day, reflecting all the latest amenities. It has been restored and donated to the Town of McCormick. An on-site genealogy library and research center is planned for the near future.
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The Dorn Mill The Dorn Mill (1898) is a fascinating reminder of America's agricultural and industrial history. This historic mill site, located on North Main Street, contains 3 buildings: grist mill, gin mill, and weigh station, that form a workable nucleus for portraying the agricultural, industrial, and commercial heritage of McCormick County. This three-story brick structure was built in 1898 as a cottonseed oil mill and was converted to a flour and gristmill in the 1920s. It contains original steam engines and equipment, based on 1843 designs by Joseph Dart, which were powered by sawdust and wood chips from Dorn Lumber Yard. The mill also contains automated flour milling equipment based on Oliver Evans' 1782 inventions. The buildings were saved from demolition in the 1970s and named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. Current restoration efforts are being sponsored by the Town of McCormick and are funded by South Carolina Department of Transportation “ISTEA Enhancements”, Dorn Mill Restoration Association, and private donations. Guillebeau House The historic Guillebeau House (ca. mid 1770's) was the home of Andre' Guillebeau, a Revolutionary War Veteran and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The cabin was moved to Hickory Knob where it was restored and is available for overnight accommodations. It is the only remaining documented structure of the French Huguenot Settlement in South Carolina's Upcountry. An explanation of the house and its construction can be found in the Hickory Knob Lodge. John de la Howe John de la Howe, a State operated school for children, is located along the shores of the upper reaches of Lake Thurmond on Little River, in northwestern McCormick County. The large holdings of forest and farm land comprising the school were left as an institution to serve children by decree in the 1797 will of Dr. John de la Howe, a French Huguenot. The school has been under the control of the State of SC since approximately 1918. John de la Howe Museum Tract The road to John de La Howe’s Tomb winds through the large pines and hardwoods that comprise a virgin forest. The "museum tract " contains 120 acres of virgin southern Piedmont forest around John de la Howe’s tomb and includes some of the state's oldest trees. SC Department of Natural Resources recognizes the site as a National Park Service Registered Natural Landmark and a SC Heritage Trust Site. John de la Howe Barn Outside the central campus stands a rustic granite barn, built by the WPA, which houses a country market. The Barn showcases plants, crafts and items handmade by the students and senior adults of McCormick County. Combined with the relationship-building process, the project provides hands-on marketing and retail experience for the de la Howe students.
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SMALL BUSINESS PLAN
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The Keturah Hotel The Keturah, a vintage two and a half story hotel (ca. 1910) is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and features white Doric columns. In the bustling days of the early 1900’s, the Keturah, named after the builder’s wife, housed travel-weary visitors who arrived daily by one of the more than eight passenger trains that served the town. It has had several names and also served as a boarding house. It has been restored and is jointly owned by the Town and County. It now serves as home to the Arts Council (MACK) and is used for community activities. Long Cane Battle Site Settlers in the territory along Long Cane Creek, which served as a boundary between the Cherokee Nation and the British province of South Carolina, were aroused to rebellion by pillaging of the British Tories since the bloodshed at Ninety Six, SC in 1775. In December 1780, the British commander at Ninety-Six (Star Fort) dispatched troops to attack the Long Cane militia that included settlers from the area as well as Georgia. Although the patriots were defeated at Long Cane, they joined forces and won the famous battle of "Cowpens". Long Cane Massacre Following a 1740 Treaty between the Cherokee Nation and the Province of South Carolina, all lands west and north of Long Cane Creek were closed to settlers. In 1758, the Calhoun Family, of Scotch-Irish descent and fleeing famine and religious persecution were granted large tracts of land near the boundary. Fearing encroachment by immigrants, the Cherokee, previously friendly, started to launch attacks on traders and settlers. On February 1, 1760, the Calhoun's and others were attacked while en-route to Augusta's Fort Moore for protection. A stone marker was placed to honor 23 victims buried in a mass grave that included the grandmother of Vice President John C. Calhoun. McAllister and Sons Located in Mt. Carmel, this is the oldest business in continual operation in the county. The store, now operated by the fourth generation of McAllisters, has housed a bank, drugstore, hardware store, and now sells furniture, appliances and hardware. Some antiques from its prior uses still remain on display in the store. Fort Charlotte (ca. 1766) and Calhoun Mill (ca. 1854) were located near here. McCormick Town Hall In the late thirties, the McCormick Town Hall was built of native pink granite with WPA labor. Judge J. Strom Thurmond, later a US Senator, dedicated the building, and "Mother" Walker of the SC Extension Department planned the landscaping. Downtown McCormick McCormick, the county seat, is approximately 40 minutes north of Augusta, GA and serves as the legal, educational, and commercial hub of the County. The depot, a National Register site which houses two antique shops, is the geographical center of town. As you walk Main Street, built over gold mine tunnels in the mid 1800’s, you will find most of the buildings have been returned to their early 1900’s appearance. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ 19
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McCormick County Court House By 1895 McCormick was a thriving community whose citizens found it difficult to reach the county seats in Abbeville and Edgefield to transact business. A New-County movement, which lasted 21 years, was initiated. The McCormick Messenger, a weekly newspaper, was established in 1902 to further this interest. In April 1916, after a 21-year struggle, McCormick became a county, formed from parts of Abbeville, Edgefield, and Greenwood counties. Since "Calhoun," the first choice for a name had been taken the most votes for the name and county seat went to McCormick. In 1923, the Courthouse, a National Register site, was built in Neo-classical style with large Doric portico on main facade, extensive decorative brickwork, and interior pressed metal ceiling. Paintings of many people who have played a part in the history of the County are on display McCormick County Visitors Center The McCormick Visitor's Center and the Chamber of Commerce office are located in the first service station (ca. 1920) in the County. The Town of McCormick, with financial assistance from the SC Dept. of Transportation's "ISTEA" program and other donors purchased and restored the building. It was opened to the public in May 1996. Mt. Carmel The name is derived from a town in France, which was decided upon by Huguenot families that were having a picnic in the area. Fort Charlotte, built west of town in 1765-67 and now under Lake Thurmond was the site of the first overt act of the Revolution in South Carolina. References to Mt. Carmel exist as early as 1836 in the journal of Mary Moragne and in the early days, the stagecoach stopped here as it traveled between Abbeville, SC and Washington, GA. After Jefferson Davis held the last meeting of his "War Council" in Abbeville, he passed through Mt. Carmel and used Hester’s Ferry, near the ruins of Ft. Charlotte, to cross the Savannah River into Georgia. Mt. Carmel served the surrounding farmers as a trading center but remained small until the 1880’s. The post office was established in 1885 and the Savannah Valley Railroad ran through the community in 1886. The prosperity lasted until the boll weevil infestation and the Depression. McAllister & Sons, the oldest business in the county, can be found in Mt. Carmel. Thanks to the efforts of the McAllisters and the Hesters, this community has been preserved and the entire town of Mt. Carmel is on the National Historic Register. Prices Mill Historic Price’s Mill, built in 1890 to replace the original mill that washed away in a flood, is one of only two water-powered gristmills in operation in SC. The National Register property is located on Steven's Creek and has been in operation since 1890 with occasional shutdowns due to flooding and repair.
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NATURAL RESOURCES Lake Thurmond The Clark’s Hill Dam & Lake projects on the Savannah River were built in the 1940’s where natural rock formations allowed a quarry to be used at the work site. Lake Thurmond, as it is now known, covers 70,000 acres with 1,200 miles of shoreline. The lake extends northward 42 miles to Lake Russell and northwest up Little River in Georgia for 26 miles. The Corps of Engineers operates a visitor center at the dam in Clarks Hill, which includes a model of the lake and an aquarium. Maps are available listing the boat ramps, which provide access to the lake, and public marinas that are located at Plum Branch, Hickory Knob State Resort Park, and Savannah Lakes Village. There are over 500 campsites on the lake managed by the Corps or South Carolina State Parks Baker Creek State Park Baker Creek State Park is located in the heart of the Sumter National Forest on the shore of Strom Thurmond Lake (formerly Clarks Hill Lake). This impoundment of the Savannah River separates South Carolina and Georgia, and is one of the largest lakes in the Southeast. Thurmond Lake's 70,000 acres of fresh water has more than 1,200 miles of shoreline. Situated in a heavily wooded area with rolling terrain, this 1,305-acre park is popular with campers, fishermen, and day visitors. Dorn Boating and Fishing Facility The Dorn Boating and Fishing Facility is located four miles west of the town of McCormick. It is the largest Boating Facility on Lake Thurmond with six launching ramps, 470 parking spaces, two fishing piers, restrooms, and is handicap accessible to include a handicap accessible fishing pier. The site hosts for approximately 75 fishing tournaments with over 6000 participants per year. Hamilton Branch State Recreation Area Hamilton Branch is located in the western Piedmont of South Carolina on Strom Thurmond Lake, a popular fishing, boating and water recreation destination. The park covers an entire 731acre peninsula that provides ample shoreline for fishing. It's also the reason why most of the park's campsites are lakefront and spacious. The rolling terrain supports a variety of wildlife and provides an excellent setting in which to see the natural beauty of the Savannah Valley region. Hickory Knob State Park Hickory Knob State Resort Park covers 1,091 acres alongside Strom Thurmond Lake in South Carolina's Savannah Lake region. As the only resort park in the state park system, Hickory Knob offers outstanding recreational opportunities which include a beautiful 18-hole championship golf course, trails for hiking, walking and biking; tennis courts, and facilities for archery and skeet shooting. A full-service restaurant is open year-round, and visitors can choose a cabin, lodge room, or camping for their overnight accommodations.
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Sumter National Forest Whether it's hunting, hiking, horseback riding, motorcycling, camping, rafting, swimming, or any number of other outdoor activities you're looking for, there's a good chance you'll find it at Sumter National Forest. Established in 1936, the forest is known for its wildlife management and recreation. Two districts of the Sumter National Forest compose the portion of the forest in the FreshWater Coast area. The Long Cane Ranger District covers about 120,000 acres in Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, McCormick and Saluda Counties, and has excellent populations of white-tailed deer and eastern wild turkey. Outdoor adventures are plentiful on the Long Cane Ranger District. Enjoy its 120 miles of bike, canoe, horse, and hiking trails. Stevens Creek Heritage Preserve An amazing 349 acres of "sensitive area" managed by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. The ridge tops at Stevens Creek Heritage Preserve are typical of other piedmont sites. The narrow floodplain is also typical, except that the trees are older and coastal plain species such as bald cypress and dwarf palmetto are present. In South Carolina, Florida gooseberry occurs only, in the Stevens Creek drainage. You can enjoy a walking trail in the preserve, which is home to eight (8)-endangered plants and the endangered Websters’ Salamander. CULTURAL RESOURCES Though culture and the arts are not the sole possessions of large towns,"incredible" is the only word that will suffice to describe the town of McCormick’s inclusion in the book, "The 100 Best Small Art Towns in America." Undoubtedly, the chief reason for the accomplishment of this feat is the McCormick Arts Council at the Keturah (MACK). The arts council was formed in December 1984 to both provide and encourage diverse artistic and cultural opportunities in the local area. Today the McCormick Arts Council is home to a variety of activities. The first floor gallery walls display an ever changing array of watercolors, oil paintings, quilts, pottery, photography, as well as solo and group shows that highlight artistic temperament and attitude of the cultural area. The exhibits feature area artists, and traveling shows arranged through the SC Arts Commission and the State Museum. The first floor is also used for art lessons, as well as by community organizations, for receptions, class reunions, and meetings and is home of the Gallery Shop. The shop features work of local artists as well as a selection of gift items. Second-floor rooms provide space for scouting organizations, the Folklife Archives, a dark room, and music lessons. MACK helps insure the health of the cultural area with a sub-grant program that offers matching grants to visual, performing, media and literary artists and teachers for particular creative projects in a three county area. For its incredible efforts in maintaining a healthy artistic community within a small town, the MACK received the prestigious Elizabeth O’Neill Verner Award in 1989. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ 22
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Engaging school children in the "activity" of art both visual and performance is a primary goal of the Arts Council. The Arts In Education program offers the more than 1400 school children from the local area opportunities to visit the SC Arts Commission’s Mobile Art Studio, as well as participate with artists in residence during their art classes. As MACK seeks to preserve the heritage and art forms of the Savannah River Basin, it also provides an outlet for performance and presentation of these art forms. Events include piano recitals, puppet shows, comedic plays involving school children, and dance groups which occur in a variety of locations, which include the schools, the John de La Howe Barn, Savannah Lakes Village or the airy and inviting amphitheater located in the adjacent park. South Carolina National Heritage Corridor The South Carolina National Heritage Corridor extends 240 miles across South Carolina, stretching from the mountains of Oconee County, along the Savannah River, to the port city of Charleston. The 14 counties of the corridor offer a cross-section of the state's history, culture, and natural landscapes. The area describes the evolution of upcountry and lowcountry life, from grand plantations and simple farms to mill villages and urban centers, and how their history affected South Carolina as a state and America as a nation. The South Carolina National Heritage Corridor was established by the U.S. Congress in 1996 as one of a select number of National Heritage Areas -- regions in which entire communities live and work, and where residents, businesses, and local governments have come together to conserve special landscapes and their own heritage. It encompasses a region of the state that retains a large percentage of rural landscapes. The corridor contains an array of intact cultural resources representative of three major components of the state's development. The invention and development of the plantation system of agriculture, and the interrelationship of historic trade routes, the coastal ports, and the settlement of the state's upland region. The area also contains specific sites of importance to the Revolutionary and Civil wars, and numerous state recreational facilities. This corridor, bounded at one end by the ancient port city of Charleston and at the other by the mountains of the Blue Ridge, contains historic, cultural, and natural resources that tell the vibrant story of South Carolina's -- and the South's -- centuries-long evolution and culture. By following the two routes described in this brochure, the visitor will learn of rice and indigo, pirates and patriots, slaves and freemen, cotton fields and mill villages, swamps and waterfalls, railroads and back roads, soul food and "pig-pickin's," spirituals and bluegrass. From Table Rock Mountain to the wharves of McClellanville, the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor is a setting within which southern history and lifestyle is alive and accessible, in all its rich variety of cultures. We hope you will use this website and join us soon in an adventure of entertainment and experience. The 240 miles and fourteen counties that comprise the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor are divided into four distinct regions that, together, provide a cross-section of the landscape, history, and culture of the corridor.
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Region-2 Freshwater Coast Region The politics of Freshwater Coast Region, made up of Abbeville, Greenwood, McCormick, and Edgefield counties -- has profoundly influenced the state and nation, beginning with Ninety-Six, the original courthouse village of the backcountry and strategic outpost during the Revolution. The fort and battle-site are now the Ninety-Six National Historic Site. Edgefield, home of ten governors, has a rich political heritage from Vice-President John C. Calhoun to Senator Strom Thurmond. Abbeville, Edgefield, and McCormick are all classic courthouse towns, serving rich agricultural lands extending out in all directions. Folk art and cultural traditions are strong within this region, as represented by the Mennonite food and Edgefield pottery. Along the western edge of this region are Lakes Russell and Thurmond, that provides a setting for state parks and lakeside resorts. Nature Route Beginning at Table Rock State Park, the Nature Route follows the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway. It rambles west and south along the foothills of the Blue Ridge, past a series of historic sites and wonderful state parks. The route leaves the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Highway where it meets the Savannah River Scenic Highway. The Nature Route then follows the Savannah River Scenic Highway for over 100 miles through national forests and small towns, past beautiful lakes and towering dams. The Nature Route enters the northern end of McCormick County and runs closely parallel to Lake Thurmond engaging a number of historic, cultural, and natural attractions along the way. The following sites qualified for inclusion in the in the Region (2) section of the Nature Route: Mt. Carmel National Historic District, Guilliebeau, Long Cane Massacre Site, Baker Creek State Park, Hickory State Park, Dorn Grist and Flour Mill, McCormick County Court House, McCormick Arts Council at Keturah (MACK), Joseph Jennings Dorn House, Prices Mill, Hamilton Branch State Recreation Area, and Thurmond Lake Visitors Center.
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South Carolina National Heritage Corridor- Region 2
COMMUNITY EVENTS Heritage Classic Golf Tournament The Heritage Classic is annual golf tournament sponsored by McCormick Chamber of Commerce, at Monticello Golf Club, Savannah Lakes Village. Holiday on Main The McCormick County Chamber of Commerce invites you to be a part of Holiday on Main! Keeping with the tradition, the parade will take place at 10:00 am on Main Street. Events following the parade will include a tour of homes, pictures with Santa, arts and crafts vendors, and much more. The full schedule may be viewed here or picked up from the Chamber of Commerce after November 15 and as always, you can call us for more information. McCormick Gold Rush Festival The town of McCormick was built on top of a gold mine and the area is rich in natural beauty, with three state parks and miles of Thurmond Lake shoreline. This event features a parade, artists and crafters, entertainment, panning, and a dance. It's a good time for panning and gem enthusiasts to visit the area. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ 25
SMALL BUSINESS PLAN
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Thunder Over Thurmond Held annually on the Saturday after the 4th of July, Thunder over Thurmond is the largest fireworks show held on Lake Thurmond. The show is accompanied by music broadcast on a area radio station and features electronically fired fireworks including the largest shells available for use in the U.S. Seen for miles on the shoreline in the area of the US 378 bridge, Thunder over Thurmond events are held throughout the area. THE HERITAGE CORRIDOR AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT South Carolina's Heritage Corridor is an economic development initiative designed to spread the benefits of tourism beyond the more popular coastal areas to small fishing villages, railroad towns, mill villages, and rural areas. These benefits are not limited to spurring capital investment, creating jobs, and generating new tax revenues. The heritage area concept will be a catalyst for the rebirth of rural South Carolina, generating a new sense of pride for all citizens involved. In addition, stewardship of the corridor's natural, cultural, and historic resources will further the efforts of conservation and preservation groups throughout the state. Finally, South Carolina's Heritage Corridor will provide a prototype for the development of many other heritage areas across the state. Heritage tourism will become a key component in stimulating economic revitalization in rural areas; in fostering natural, cultural, and historic conservation and preservation; and in improving the quality of life for residents. The success of this kind of effort, depends heavily on locally focused partnerships that capitalize on the interests and energies of community residents, as well as on the technical assistance available through a variety of national, state, regional, and local agencies and organizations. Strong, supportive partnerships with state and local governments are a key and crucial element in fostering local empowerment and control, a necessary ingredient in sustaining a viable heritage tourism program. By working together and pooling resources, small towns and rural areas can develop clusters of attractions that then serve as a foundation for heritage tourism development. When these clusters are properly marketed and linked with the necessary tourism infrastructure of their more prosperous urban neighbors, the framework for an economic base is established.
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Building a Heritage Travel Industry Heritage visitors want these priorities from their local hosts: •
Quality that exceeds expectations.
•
Information, including directions, historical backgrounds, details on special events.
•
Easy access via roads, trails, boardwalks, boats and so on
Suggestions for making communities more “heritage friendly” include: •
Arrange for arts, antiques and crafts to be readily available for purchase.
• •
Provide a variety of activities, including nature-based, historic, cultural, and physical. Address the interests of various skill levels and age groups. Provide activities that are entertainment, fun, and always new.
•
Provide detailed maps of sites.
•
Provide skilled and friendly hosts and guides for visitors.
•
Post current information on the Internet.
• •
Provide easy access to amenities and services—either onsite or nearby—including places where gas, coffee, box meals, sit-down meals, film, sunscreen, bug repellent, hats, waterproof clothing, footgear, camping equipment, souvenirs and lodging can be obtained and where equipment repairs can be made. Address the special needs of the RV crowd, including a list of places where RVs can be repaired.
•
Host information sessions and field trips for local officials on the importance of the nearby heritage sites.
•
Provide marketing tie-ins to current news events. For instance, the release of The Patriot movie was a time to highlight Revolutionary War sites in South Carolina, just as the Hunley excavation brings renewed interest in coastal areas.
Source: Heritage Travel. South Carolina 2001 Tourism Report Series, Marketing Office of the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, Colimbia, SC. 2001
Similar information related to the development of associated travel industries such as wildlife watching, sport fishing, hunting, hiking, and outdoor camping can be found at the official tourism website of South Carolina. http://www.discoversouthcarolina.com/agency/researchreports.asp
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Small Business Coordinator In order to coordinate the organization and distribution of information vital to the small business community, an independent small business coordinator may be required. A small business coordinator would serve as a liaison that facilitates communications among potential and current small business owners and the numerous non-profit resource assistance organizations operated by the local, state, and federal government. The creation of such a position would allow there to be an individual operating within the County whose main purpose is the provision of assistance to current small business owners and new small business development. This position will establish programming that provides a direct response to, and problem solving for small business owners throughout the county. Major duties that may be performed by the Coordinator may include, but are not limited to: Small Business Coordinator: Major Duties •
Identification and recruitment of prospective small business opportunities
•
Identification and maintenance current information on property/site availability for potential small businesses
•
Coordinate assistance based resources “web based”
•
Coordinate local small business peer network in cooperation with McCormick EDAC and Chamber of Commerce
•
Participate on Small Business Committee
•
Act as small business liaison between current and potential small business owners and various government entities. See appendix for Small Business Coordinator job description
EDAC and Chamber of Commerce Roles The second component of the strategic framework is directed at the provision of assistance to tourism based small businesses. Two groups in McCormick appear to be in a unique position to play such a role in the overall small business development strategy. Both the McCormick County Economic Development Action Committee (EDAC) and the Chamber of Commerce currently address these issues in some capacity. However, a shift in focus may be required to ensure that the objectives of this part of the Plan are met. This shift will require EDAC to clarify its strategic purpose as it relates to the further development of a tourist based small business economy. Likewise, the initiative requires the Chamber of Commerce to accept responsibility for the coordination small business workshops and active participation in the small business peer network. Listed below are examples of roles that these two local groups may play strategy process.
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EDAC Roles • • • • •
Clarify strategic purpose and direction Formulate marketing theme or image Develop a categorized site map used to support marketing objectives Act as liaison between tourist based small businesses and government entities Participate on Small Business Resource Alliance
Chamber of Commerce Roles • • • •
Assist planning of community events based on marketing theme or image Participate in peer network Coordinate small business workshops Participate on Small Business Resource Alliance
Peer Network A peer advisory group or peer network is a group of small business owners from diverse backgrounds actively engaged in communication to solve problems, best practices and offer each other peer support. Peer networks give small businesses access to knowledge and contacts that would be difficult to find outside the groups. Aside from business opportunities and information, many small business owners say peer groups provide something that no other group can: an instant cure for the loneliness and isolation that comes from being your own boss. Many small business owners are relying on their peer groups to be such valuable sounding boards. A popular networking option for those seeking education and advice, peer group membership is often seen as an essential tool for small business success. The small business coordinator, along with the Chamber of Commerce and EDAC should work towards the creation of such a network composed of willing small business owners, business retirees, and assistance sources. Though the exact format for the network/forum depends on participation levels and operational resources, there are several design options for such a group. Ideally, the group should remain in constant contact with one another via email, telephone, or an active web-based forum. An example of such an assistance forum is operated by SCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business" a nonprofit association dedicated to providing entrepreneurs with free, confidential face-to-face and email business counseling. Small Business Resource Alliance In addition to the peer network composed of small business owners and assistance sources, a Small Business Resource Alliance or committee should be formed to monitor the progress of community small business goals. In addition to representatives from the small business community, this group should include representatives from the local and county government, _____________________________________________________________________________________________ 29
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EDAC representatives, the Small Business Coordinator, representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, and representatives from regional small business assistance organizations. The Small Business Resource Alliance may meet quarterly to conduct work in keeping with the following goals: • • • •
To facilitate and promote effective communication among members for the purpose of improving service to McCormick County small business owners. To periodically study the challenges faced by small business owners and to encourage changes that will improve entrepreneurs' chances for success. To advocate for local policies and programs that will strengthen the small business climate within the County. To review the progress of initiatives undertaken as a result of the Small Business Development Plan.
Web-based Assistance Format The effective dissemination of large amounts of information managed by the Small Business Coordinator depends on the format in which it is organized and presented. In addition, the utilization of such information depends on availability to any prospective users and the ease of use. Many government and non-profit small business assistance sources have found it useful to develop web or Internet based access to the information they provide. Once a web format has been established, potential users may be directed to a site that effectively serves as an information clearinghouse for small business related material. This format allows prospective users both inside and outside the community to use the most current information, provided the Small Business Coordinator maintains updates. In addition, the web-site could serve as one node in a network linked to broad array of small business assistance resources. McCormick Small Business Development Web Based Format •
Project introduction
•
McCormick County profile and demographics
•
Small business climate matrix
•
Current business data
•
Available site/property data
•
Tourism industry data
•
Small business resource assistance directory/links
•
Grant and loan information
•
Small business Peer Network forum
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An exemplary format may be viewed at the North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center’s Institute for Rural Entrepreneurship web site. A similar site developed for McCormick County should include but is not limited to the following elements.
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Small Business Strategic Framework
Business Assistance Component
Tourism Promotion Component
Small Business Coordinater
McCormick EDAC/Chamber of Commerce
Identify Prospective Small Business
Identify Business Sites
Clarify Strategic Direction / Purpose
Formulate Marketing Theme/Image
Coordinate Assistance Resources *Web Based*
Coordinate Peer Network
Participate in Peer Network
Coordinate SBD Educational Workshops
Small Business Resource Alliance Conduct Quarterly Review Monitor Strategic Progress
This framework is an example of the organizational structure that will be necessary for the implementation of all components of the plan.
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BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES Chamber of Commerce The McCormick County Chamber of Commerce facilitates positive business growth by providing programs and services that attract newcomers and visitors in order to bring economic growth to the area while conserving the county’s unique historical, cultural, natural, and heritage resources. The McCormick County Chamber of Commerce is a public-private partnership governed by an elected board of directors. It is supported financially by McCormick County, the Town of McCormick, businesses and industries, and private investors who are interested in the growth of McCormick County. http://www.mccormickcountysc.com/
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development Rural Development is committed to helping improve the economy and quality of life in all of rural America. Through our programs, we touch rural America in many ways. Our financial programs support such essential public facilities and services as water and sewer systems, housing, health clinics, emergency service facilities and electric and telephone service. We promote economic development by supporting loans to businesses through banks and community-managed lending pools. We offer technical assistance and information to help agricultural and other cooperatives get started and improve the effectiveness of their member services. And we provide technical assistance to help communities undertake community empowerment programs. http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/
South Carolina Small Business Development Center Under a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration the Small Business Development Center (SC SBDC) program was established to aid small business start-up ventures and to assist in the continued growth of small businesses across the country. The program is supported with federal, state and private funds and is open to any present or prospective small business owner generally fee free. Yearly, we see upwards of 3,500 entrepreneurs and current small business owners walk through the doors of our seventeen statewide offices. By providing a wide-array of services and resources, the SC SBDC does big things for small business in South Carolina. SC SBDC Services include: • •
One-on-one consultation Special interest seminars
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MCCORMICK, SC
Information referral services
These regional centers and area offices offer a variety of services and management training courses tailored to meet the needs of small and medium sized businesses. SC SBDC consultants at each site provide managerial and technical assistance to those wishing to start or expand and enterprise, generally fee free. These offices include: • • • •
Clemson University Winthrop University University of South Carolina-Columbia South Carolina State University
http://scsbdc.moore.sc.edu/
South Carolina Rural Development Council Created by a National Rural Economic Development Initiative in 1990, State Rural Development Councils (SRDC) were formed to coordinate rural development efforts among federal departments and agencies and to establish effective collaboration with states, local governments and the private sector. The state councils work to develop strategies for applying available federal, state and private sector resources to achieve long-term rural economic development. State councils serve as forums for identifying issues affecting effective collaboration between the federal, state and local governments in rural economic development. The goal of the South Rural Carolina Development Council is to provide an institutional framework within which federal government resources can be used in combination with those of state and local governments, private businesses and nonprofit organizations, to promote rural economic development. An objective is to facilitate the distribution of information and assistance to support rural economic and community development. http://www.state.sc.us/scrdc/
South Carolina Forestry Commission Assistance is provided for forest, wood products, and related business development. In addition, trade development activities are carried out to increase markets for South Carolina wood products. The Primary Forest Industry Directory is a list of all wood and paper manufacturing industries in the state. http://www.state.sc.us/forest/prod.htm
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The South Carolina Department of Parks Recreation and Tourism The Parks Recreation and Tourism department administers several grant programs for development of public recreational opportunities through the state. All grant programs administered by this office are reimbursable funds from various sources with specific qualification and restrictions. http://www.discoversouthcarolina.com/agency/grants.asp
SC National Heritage Corridor Development Grants The SC National Heritage Corridor is a federally funded program providing product development, planning and marketing grants to non-profit and governmental organizations located within the 14-county SC National Heritage Corridor. Heritage Corridor Regional Board support for the project is essential. This is a 50-50-match program wherein eligible costs will be reimbursed at a rate of 50%. A statewide committee determines grant recipients. These grants are focused on developing new heritage tourism attractions or enhancing existing ones. http://www.discoversouthcarolina.com/agency/index.asp
Business Carolina Business Carolina is a non-profit, statewide development finance institution that provides innovative financial products and capacity building services to promote growth and competitiveness of new and existing small and medium sized businesses in South Carolina. Business Carolina programs compliment private-sector activities through a variety of lending programs designed to fill gaps in funding often faced by such businesses, especially in rural and distressed areas of the State. South Carolina Woman’s Business Center The South Carolina Women’s Business Center (SCWBC) offers women entrepreneurs new opportunities to take their business ideas from their imaginations to successful endeavors. This center is part of the South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (SCMEP) and is funded by a Cooperative Agreement from the Small Business Administration (SBA). The SCWBC program provides business and technical assistance to prospective and existing womenowned businesses throughout the state of South Carolina. http://www.scwbc.org/index.htm
The Economic Development and Technical Assistance Center (EDTAC) This center, funded by the Economic Development Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce, is established to provide on-site technical assistance to small minority businesses in ten (10) predominately Black counties of South Carolina as well as selected units of government; _____________________________________________________________________________________________ 35
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primarily those affiliated with the South Carolina Conference of Black Mayors. Specifically, EDTAC exists to promote economic development through business development, to research and disseminate information of interest to community leaders and business owners, while providing assistance to enhance development opportunities, and to disseminate information on activities of the Center as the Center works collaboratively with other business and economic entities for maximum services and capabilities. Service Corps of Retired Executives SCORE (SCORE) SCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business" is a nonprofit association dedicated to providing entrepreneurs with free, confidential face-to-face and email business counseling. Business counseling and workshops are offered at 389 chapter offices across the country. http://www.score.org/
Small Business Administration – South Carolina District Office The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) was created in 1953 as an independent agency of the federal government to "to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small business concerns, to preserve free competitive enterprise, and to maintain and strengthen the overall economy of our nation." In order to serve small business interests, the SBA, operating from its Headquarters in Washington, D.C., is supported in its delivery of programs and services through SBA Regional, District and Branch Offices. South Carolina is served through a District Office located in Columbia at the Strom Thurmond Federal Building at 1835 Assembly Street. The South Carolina District Office provides programs and services directly to the small business community; and performs oversight responsibilities for all SBA funded programs (resources) within the state. SBA funded programs include the Frank L. Roddey Small Business Development Center (SBDC) the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), and the Charleston Business Information Center (BIC). http://www.sbaonline.sba.gov/sc/index.html
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