News

Connet honored as a Main Street Champion

Liz Crabill, Chief Deputy Secretary of North Carolina Dept. of Commerce; John Connet, Hendersonville City Manager; and Kenny Flowers – Assistant Secretary of Rural Economic Development.

By Lightning Reports, Published: April 9, 2019

The North Carolina Department of Commerce recognized Hendersonville City Manager John Connet as a North Carolina Main Street Champion, saying he exerts a positive influence downtown "from the big things to the little things."

He was honored along with 42 other champions for their contributions to Main Street programs and downtown districts across the state during a meeting in Salisbury on March 14 .

“Every city and town needs a Champion - someone that will step up and invest time and money in the community, improve the quality of life and grow economic vibrancy throughout the state,” said Anthony M. Copeland, N.C. Secretary of Commerce in a release. “Commerce is so pleased, each year, to recognize those individuals that are making a difference in their communities.”

During the awards ceremony Connet was recognized for his diligent work to move a variety of preservation, reinvestment, infrastructure and capital projects forward, all while annually attending the downtown program's volunteer recognition programs and volunteering his own personal time to support downtown events.

“From my first interactions with the City to the work I do on the Advisory Committee, John has always served with a complete dedication to the people and our community,” said Michele Sparks, chair of the Hendersonville Downtown Main Street Advisory Committee and owner of Art Mob Studios. “He creates an environment where our town can continue to grow and flourish.”

This year’s group of Main Street Champions brings the total number to 721 that have been recognized by the N.C. Department of Commerce over the past nineteen years.