New Rutherford County Economic Development Director Selected

Rutherford County officials announced Monday that longtime Tourism Development Authority Director Don Cason has been selected to serve as the county’s new Economic Development Association Director, expanding his leadership role across two key agencies. The announcement follows the retirement of Birgit Dilgert.

The appointment was made in coordination with Rutherford County Government, the Rutherford County Tourism Development Authority (TDA), and the Rutherford County Economic Development Association (EDA). While the two organizations will continue to operate independently, Cason will serve in a dual role as TDA and EDA director.

Willard Whitson, chair of the Rutherford County TDA Board, said Cason’s appointment reflects the growing connection between tourism and economic development.

“Don will bring the same passion and innovation to this new opportunity that he has shown with the highly successful Rutherford Bound tourism development plan,” Whitson said. “He understands that tourism and economic development are inherently linked.”

Cason has served as Rutherford County’s TDA Director since June 2016. During that time, he has overseen expanded marketing efforts and long-term planning initiatives aimed at positioning Rutherford County as a regional tourism destination.

EDA Chairman Thad Harrill said the organization expects Cason to make an immediate impact.

“We are excited to welcome Don as our EDA Director,” Harrill said. “He brings a wealth of economic development experience to our group and will create immediate positive impact for business, industry, and our citizens.”

County officials said the dual-director structure is intended to strengthen collaboration between tourism promotion and economic development efforts, aligning workforce, infrastructure, and business recruitment goals with the county’s growing visitor economy.

The transition took effect on February 2, 2026, the same day that a new interim county manager was named.

Cason is also the Chairman of Raise the Rock and is a member of the Chimney Rock Village Planning Board.