HALIFAX — Roanoke Avenue Business Alliance President Kim Simpson heard some news she said blessed her heart Tuesday night at the Halifax County Commissioners meeting.

Advertisement

The board decided to pitch in $5,000 to help RABA bring Roanoke Avenue to its former glory by donating to the Main Street Program.

The Alliance has pulled together businesses and the town to promote economic development on the Avenue. Fundraisers, contributions and donations have kept the momentum going and recently the organization received word they were accepted into the Main Street Program.

Simpson approached commissioners in October, asking for a commitment of funds over the next three years. She was informed she needed to bring more information before they would consider making a decision.

Simpson brought a business plan, budgets and 501(c)(3) information and answered questions. Simpson said the funds will be used for operating expense as the group needs a director — one of the requirements for being part of the Main Street Program.

Commissioner Chair Gene Minton asked Simpson what would happen if the county didn’t have the money. She replied it would set the organization back considerably.

County Manager Tony Brown expressed concern with the challenge of finding $5,000 in funding and whether the money would have to come from the contingency fund.

Commissioner Carolyn Johnson asked if commissioners would commit to funding for 2009 only, and have the organization return to the board for funding next year. Simpson said she would be happy with that.

Commissioner James Pierce made a motion to approve $5,000 funding for 2009 for RABA.