In this series, let’s not forget the Cleveland County Commissioners, who were responsible for much of this mess we’ve shared here. The years 2007-2208 were the pivotal years for Destination Cleveland County in which the commissioners along with the county and city officials gave the courthouse to DCC, along with other perks that were bestowed upon them. During the last meeting/forum that was held for the public on March 11, 2008, 3 of the commissioners were present to answer questions and clear the air. In attendance were Vice-Chairman Eddie Holbrook, Commissioner Johnny Hutchins, and Commissioner Mary Accor. Chairwoman Jo Boggs and Commissioner Ronnie Hawkins never made an appearance at any of the public functions that were held for those who opposed the old courthouse giveaway.
The remaining commissioner from this courthouse fiasco, Johnny Hutchins, having served since 2007, has the honor of being able to give the most seat time, while doing the least for the people of Cleveland County.
Townhall Meeting March 11, 2008, Shelby, NC
County Commissioners Hutchins and Accor assure citizens they will take questions at the next meeting. However, at the next meeting, they gave the old courthouse away. Did not address those questions at all.
The commissioners who were in office at this time were:
Jo Boggs, Chairwoman
Eddie Holbrook, Vice-Chairman
Mary S. Accor,
Ronald J. Hawkins
Johnny Hutchins
David C. Dear, County Manager
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A week later, on March 18, 2008, the citizens of Cleveland County who attended the commissioners’ meeting were able to see and hear how the powers that be lied to the people. The very things that the commissioners who had attended the town hall meeting had promised were ignored at this meeting, and the citizens realized that their heritage would soon be in the dumpster and the landfill…and the county seat would be in the toilet.
After hearing the presentation given by the commissioners and the county manager, one would have thought that by the time this meeting was over, there would be chauffeured limousines and chariots of fire circling the block at the courthouse, waiting for the doors to open. Instead, the people were greeted by police cars, deputies, and canines.
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According to the Godbold College of Business, The Earl Scruggs Center would bring in over $200M $180M in 10 years.
Their tune changed after the $200M claim, and the opening date continued to change. The Mayor of Shelby makes a statement to reflect such:
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The true numbers are found within the IRS Form 990 of DCC’s annual reports. Below are a few of those to see their bottom line.
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To read an in-depth report on the Earl Scruggs Center and the old historical museum/courthouse, a good place to begin is:
Journey To The Earl Scruggs Center. This is a 7-part series authored by Brendan Camp LeGrand, that is well-written and heavily documented.
