Main Street Director Lance Jenkins has announced his resignation effective July 31, the Roanoke Avenue Business Alliance announced in a press release.
In a telephone interview this afternoon, Jenkins said he is resigning because of an opportunity closer to his home.
“This was not an easy choice,” said Jenkins said in the press release. “People have supported me since I have been here, and I could not be more grateful for the guidance I have had in moving this organization and my career forward.”
Jenkins cited in the press release that RABA officials have been very understanding of his decision. “I have an amazing relationship with the people involved with RABA, and they are committed to continuing our effort to move this organization forward. This is simply a decision I had to make for my career and future, and I am happy that I will maintain an excellent partnership with this organization.”
Jenkins will serve in an advisory capacity following his departure to assist RABA through the transition and beyond. RABA expects to make a decision on a new manager prior to Jenkins’ departure so Jenkins can work directly with the new manager to prepare them for the tasks ahead.
“There is a lot to be done, and I truly believe in this organization’s future,” said Jenkins. “RABA has great leadership, great volunteers, and it is a worthy cause that will succeed in revitalizing the Avenue District.”
He said in the phone interview, “The plan is for us not to skip a beat. I will still be continuing my relationship with the organization.”
During his tenure as Main Street director and that of former director Charles Williams, the organization has grown, Jenkins said. “Other communities (in the program) are still working toward their goals. We’re going to get there.”
Steve Dennis, RABA President said in the press release, “We will truly miss Lance’s youthful vigor and his dedication to making Roanoke Rapids a better place to live, work and play.
“He has shown wisdom beyond his years and has had very positive results with each project we have undertaken. He has been a great asset during his time with our organization. I speak for the entire board of directors when I say we wish Lance the best that life has to offer and success in his new job.”
Dennis said in a phone interview the RABA board of directors would discuss their plans Tuesday. “We really hope to have someone in place before Lance leaves. If we see it’s taking longer we may put an interim director in place.”
Dennis there are no hard feelings between Jenkins and the organization. “The fact that he is leaving RABA does not change his feelings about the organization. He can help in an advisory or board position.”
Roanoke Rapids was selected as a North Carolina Main Street Community in 2009, joining 59 other communities across the state that have previously received the designation. RABA was commissioned by the city of Roanoke Rapids to foster the NC Main Street Program, and has been doing so for the past three years.
In the last year, ten facades have been improved in the district, the building occupancy rate has risen 7 percent, and the number of business use permits applied for in the Roanoke Avenue District has increased 9 percent.
“RABA and its partners have a transition plan in place to ensure there is no disruption in the revitalization efforts in the Roanoke Avenue Business District,” Dennis said in the press release. “We will continue to be the catalyst for positive change in the district and welcome new volunteers and financial supporters to come share in our successes.”
Upcoming events are already being organized by RABA. A ‘Stars on the Avenue’ event is being planned to highlight local artists and raise money for RABA, and another FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE! event featuring Steve Owens and Summertime is under consideration for the fall.
