Growth in Mooresville Census: 'No surprise'

The results of the 2010 Census may have surprised some Mooresville residents, but most of the town’s elected leaders say the newly released numbers only confirm what they’ve known for years about Mooresville’s fast growth.

“The latest census report wasn't all that surprising, considering South Iredell's population has been on an upward trend for more than a decade,” said Mayor Chris  Montgomery.

Commissioner Mac Herring agreed.

“The state estimate from two to three years ago suggested we were the largest town in Iredell County, so that’s not a big surprise,” he said. “We’ve been looking at the rates and planning for the wastewater treatment expansion.”

The census showed that Mooresville is now Iredell County’s largest town, increasing from a population of 18,823 in 2000 to 32,711 in 2010, a growth rate of 73.8 percent. As to what caused the tremendous growth, elected leaders point to the things that draw people here.

“We’re a well-balanced town with great jobs and the quality of life around the lake is beautiful,” said Commissioner Chris Carney. “There are so many cultural opportunities that we find ourselves in a unique situation.”

Added Herring, “Jobs are definitely a draw, and Lowe’s is a tremendous corporate citizen. The temperate climate also draws a lot of people from all over.”

When the census numbers came back, “they were pretty much dead on with the state estimates,” said Carney. “Over the last four to five years, we’ve had multiple areas impacted with traffic, and that’s always a sign of growth.”

             “Great schools and jobs probably top the list,” echoed Montgomery. “We share a beautiful lake as well as the racing industry with neighboring towns. A close proximity to both the coast and mountains is a plus. And even though traffic continues to be a growing pain, there is still plenty of green space. We have the best of both worlds in many regards.”

            With the town’s increasing population, the budget is on the forefront of many minds. Herring said the economy has slowed the growth of the town, but the board is still looking to the future.

“We know that we need to plan for continued growth and we already have some good plans in place,” he said. “When we decided to keep the tax rate flat, we knew it would mean a loss of revenue. We’re working with that and applying our resources the best way we can.”

Added Carney, “I feel that we’re already making good decisions with the budget we have to work with, and we spent (the week) in Washington making sure the state and federal government are aware of the tax issues that are important to us.”

Montgomery said the town is in good shape, but the current government is always searching for ways to make Mooresville a better place to live and work.

“Even though Mooresville has a healthy general fund, the town continues to look for better budgeting practices,” he said. “Mooresville is fortunate to have past and present leadership with vision and foresight.

“For example, I strongly believe our current board has the town's best interest at heart. They are vested in the community and more times than not, conflicting opinions ultimately lead to compromise and collaboration. That mindset results in success and everyone wants to be associated with success.”

Overall, Herring believes the growing population will only benefit Mooresville.

“With the influx of people, they’re also bringing their special talents and gifts,” he said. “I hope they feel free to engage in the public process and become involved in all we have to offer while living here.”

“We continue to enhance recreation with parks and ball fields and many downtown shops have become destination points,” added Montgomery. “These are just a few examples of the resources we can offer natives and new residents.”