Connections are the key that Planning and Economic Development Manager Shannan Campbell wields to unlock Hillsborough’s economic development potential.

Campbell joined the town in 2015 as an economic development planner. She has continued to be the town’s key economic development champion, even after taking over managing the town’s planning team two years ago when the planning and economic development division was created.

To support economic development, Campbell makes connections locally and across the region, linking the wants and needs of businesses, visitors and residents to those that can fulfill the desires while building on Hillsborough’s small-town charm.

She also connects businesses and spaces, and her connections often lead to perfect pairings.

Campbell and the four planning staff she supervises help the public with development projects, property changes and signage in the town's planning jurisdiction as well as navigating regulations in the Historic District.

Recently, a local firm was looking to purchase office space, while another property owner was attempting to rezone on West Margaret Lane to attract new tenants. Campbell spoke to them both. Realizing they could be a perfect fit for each other, she put them in touch. This connection landed Hillsborough Wills & Trusts at 128 W. Margaret Lane.

Tourism

Additionally, Campbell supports the town’s tourism boards, which use revenue collected from two town taxes to attract visitors to spend money locally at shops, restaurants and festivals and to help fuel the local economy. The Tourism Board manages proceeds from the town’s prepared food and beverage tax, and the Tourism Development Authority manages proceeds from the town’s hotel and motel room occupancy tax.

Through her support of the Visit Hillsborough tourism program and its advertising, Campbell connects locals and tourists with many fun, educational and family-friendly activities offered by local businesses and nonprofit organizations. The tourism program helps fund lively events that draw people to town, like River Park Concert, Hog Day, Solstice Walk, Uproar Festival of Public Art, Handmade Parade and Last Fridays.

“There is something for everyone in Hillsborough,” Campbell said. “With our events, live music and arts scene, outdoor recreation options, cultural and historic sites, and unique shopping and dining experiences, everything you could want is just a short walk or drive away here in Hillsborough!”

Planning Ahead

Campbell also works to identify and attract new businesses to fill market gaps in town, working with the Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce, the Orange County economic development office, residents and elected officials. 

“The gaps we have identified include furniture stores, a cultural and performing arts center, and specialty dining, like more fast-casual options near the interstates and a steakhouse,” she said. “The town tries to connect businesses with space and vacant lots for future development when possible. When businesses meet performance standards, the town and Orange County can also offer economic development incentives to help bring businesses into the area.”

Campbell’s work on connections has not been limited to people in Hillsborough today. Her work in the town’s long-range planning helps determine how the town will grow, including her work on the Comprehensive Sustainability Plan that was adopted in 2023 and a current parking study and revision of the town’s development ordinances to provide more flexibility. 

Staff in her division also support three appointed boards that help manage the town’s planning and zoning regulations: the Board of Adjustment, Historic District Commission and Planning Board. 

“How we plan and develop now impacts the future of Hillsborough,” Campbell said. “Planning for growth and density where we can support it with proper infrastructure allows for the town to operate more efficiently and maintain its small-town character.”