Civil Municipal Magazine - Nov 2023

28 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 11 employees, and county workers. He admits, “In a small rural community, you need to attract and retain teachers and critical employees; local government, law enforcement, EMS, Sheriff, hospital and the like. Focusing on developing affordable, workforce housing will not only attract new residents, but will help retain our best and brightest”.” He remarks that the state is keen on investing in communities that have demonstrated resilience, noting that through initiatives like Rebuild N.C., Dream Point Teacher Apts., and Carolina Rebuilders Ministry, we are not only creating new housing opportunities, but investing in saving and improving existing housing”. County Commissioner, John Trent adds that Bertie County has also been actively engaged in talks with Director Reginald Speight, who oversees the USDA state branch, partnering to find innovative solutions to housing challenges in the region. Pointing out that 67% of residents in the county are currently renting, www.occano.com