High Point business, government and community leaders on Wednesday gathered to celebrate the city’s recent progress on several fronts, including “All-America City” award recognition.
City Councilman Michael Holmes told the crowd at the annual Business High Point-Chamber of Commerce State of the City luncheon that the award is one of many positive signs for the city.
Holmes said, “What is the state of our city? My friends, it’s my honor and my privilege to report to you that the city of High Point is growing, the city of High Point is thriving and together we are creating a High Point that will change this world.”
The award, which was bestowed last month, recognized several local initiatives, including Thrive High Point, a BHP Chamber program that serves minority- and women-owned businesses.
The program’s executive director, Telisha Roberts, said future goals include placing small businesses in the Washington Street historic district.
“We’re building a community of entrepreneurs no matter where your business is in its lifecycle,” she said.
Holmes said other areas of progress for the city include significant reductions in violent crime and property crime.
He said the council has posted several noteworthy accomplishments, including passage of a fair housing ordinance, as well as “the nation’s first comprehensive municipal reparations package” and the High Point 2045 comprehensive plan, which will address challenges around affordable housing.
Holmes said the city’s new brand and logo that it uses to market itself has garnered wide acclaim and is helping accomplish goals like bringing more north High Point residents to downtown events.
“Our brand is more than a logo. It’s a unifying symbol,” he said.
BHP Chamber presented its annual Chamber Hero Award to city Marketing Manager Ryan Ferguson, who helped design and launch the new brand.
BHP Chamber President and CEO Rachel Collins said Ferguson has long been a champion of the city’s downtown catalyst district around Truist Point stadium and the Congdon Yards campus.
“Some of our most impactful successes include Congdon Yards, which is fully leased with 50 tenants that employ over 400,” she said.
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