Elm Street Light Industrial Park
Two parcels are left--each parcel is approximately 6 acres. The front parcel is $595,000 and the back parcel $495,000. Public Utilities on site and
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IMPORTANT BRIEFING - HORSE PARK FEASIBILITY STUDY
In early 2007 the Michigan Equine Partnership (MEP) commissioned Public Sector Consultants to conduct a demand and feasibility study to determine whether support exists in Michigan for the development of an equine park. The results of that study are scheduled to be released on September 9, 2008. Jackson is one of the top recommended possible sites.
An information briefing will be held for all local, state and federal elected officials and staffs, as well as the directors of The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce, Jackson County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Jackson County Agriculture Council and Jackson Citizens for Economic Growth. This meeting will be held in the County Commission Chambers from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 3, 2008.
General information will be shared, including potential economic impact and tourism growth, as well as job creation. The feasibility study suggests that up to $6.4 million in economic impact can be realized with a typical two-day event. The community needs to coalesce a wide group of supporters for having this facility in Jackson County, so feel free to bring along anyone who might be interested.
The meeting will be open to the public and anyone with an interest in supporting Jackson as the best location for such a facility is welcome to attend.
We will reserve some seats for local elected officials, so please RSVP to The Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce at 517-782-8221 if you plan to attend.
County grant spells progress for the EG
Posted by Jackson Citizen Patriot
August 26, 2008 07:19AM
Categories: Editorial
If we were Scott Fleming, executive director of the Enterprise Group, we would not spend that $100,000 semi-pledge from Jackson County officials quite yet. But it sure feels good to know the tide has turned, that the EG has regained the respect of county officials.
Last week Randy Treacher, county administrator and an EG Board member, said the county might increase its $80,000 annual contribution to the EG by $100,000 next month. He explained, “In years past there was a dissatisfaction with the EG ... and with the direction the EG was going. That has quickly changed with the direction of Scott, and they do need some financial assistance.”
That “might-give” depends on a vote by Jackson County commissioners at their Sept. 23 meeting. There are other pressing budget concerns, including tentative plans to cut about 33 positions from the county payroll as a budget-balancing measure. However, Treacher reasons that there is room in the budget for a one-time $100,000 contribution. His reasons make good sense.
Local government and the EG have long had a difficult relationship. As the county’s premiere economic-development agency, the EG serves interests of various stakeholders. It is a private-sector organization with voluntary links to some local governments that contribute funding for the benefits of development. Those local governments usually have a seat on the EG board, but from time to time may be pleased — or not — with the leadership and direction of the EG.
County officials had come to the point several years ago where they let their contributions spell out their unhappiness. Specifically, they cut their normal $100,000 annual contributions to $80,000. Treacher said the proposed $100,000 one-time contribution would bring this year’s total to $180,000 and also make whole the EG for cuts in the county’s annual contributions over the past five years. He also hopes to get greater representation by the county on the EG Board.
We’ll add our two cents’ worth to the matter by encouraging commissioners to follow through on this pledge. Even with the county’s long-term budget concerns, it makes sense to invest in the EG’s valuable work on behalf of the county and its residents. The county’s contribution will be a timely boost, since the EG is on the threshhold of a new capital campaign.
But if the contribution makes good sense for the county, the same applies to the city of Jackson. City officials have, over the years, had their own issues with the EG and have chosen a more independent course, with more tightly defined economic-development goals through city staff. The city contributes to the EG, but only $10,000 annually — far less than the county or Blackman Township.
The EG’s efforts benefit the city, whether directly or indirectly. Therefore city officials — both elected and appointed — should revisit the city’s contribution level. We can’t say what it should be, only that $10,000 is an under-investment for a city that is the centerpiece of a community desperately in need of economic development.
— Jackson Citizen Patriot
Enterprise Group markets Kaneka facility
Posted by Chris Gautz
Citizen Patriot
August 24, 2008 00:08AM
Categories: Business
The Enterprise Group is taking a bold approach to ensure a once-promising facility now set to close finds a new inhabitant before the current one turns out the light
Scott Fleming, president and CEO of The Enterprise Group, the county’s economic-development agency, said Kaneka Texas Corp. has agreed to let the agency market the property while a dwindling number of employees finish up their work.
“It’s smart,” said Jerry Wood, a business consultant with GGW & Associates in Jackson. “That’s an aggressive idea and I applaud it. I think they’re doing the right thing.”
Kaneka opened in Blackman Township in 2000.
The company made energy absorbers, the foam between the plastic and metal bumper pieces, for the automotive industry.
But the business struggled due to the overall decline in the industry and the fact that the cost of the principal ingredient in the energy absorbers — petroleum —is soaring.
Kaneka had been unable to make a profit on its automobile bumper business, which was to be transferred to Createc Corp., based in Indianapolis.
Last year, the parent company wrote off the building, machinery, equipment and other assets of the Blackman Township plant as a loss based on grim future projections. The company had been injecting capital into the plant to keep it open, but losses were mounting.
In April, the Japanese-based company employed about 50 and now is down to about 25.
Fleming said he and Blackman Township Supervisor Ray Snell met with company officials earlier this year and got them to agree to let the Enterprise Group become the listing agent for the property before it closed for good.
“Once they shut it down, it makes it more difficult to start it back up,” he said.
Fleming has a real estate license and has prior experience selling commercial properties.
Fleming said he was given about a 90-day window by the company, which means he must try to sell the property by Oct. 1.
“Hopefully I can do it before then,” he said.
He has shown five or six clients the building since then, he said, and several are seriously considering it.
“We have a verbal offer in the works,” Fleming said.
There is about $16 million worth of machinery and personal property inside that comes with the 140,000-square-foot building and the property, which is 92 acres.
The best-case scenario, Fleming said, is to get a company in the injection molding business to come into the building and be ready to start up right away.
“I think that’s a bonus,” Wood said. “It’s like turning over a house fully furnished.”
The asking price is $4 million. “I see it as a bargain,” Fleming said.
What also should make the property attractive is that it is only 8 years old and is right off I-94, at 4335 County Farm Road.
“If that one right buyer is there, it could go quick,” Wood said. “If not, you could have a building sitting there for a long time.”
Snell said the Enterprise Group will not collect a commission if it sells the property. Instead, the money will either be used as an incentive to a buyer or as a fee to another real estate agent working with a prospective buyer.
“It’s one of the best buildings on the market in Jackson County,” Snell said. “This was just a great way to work with the company. Kaneka really feels bad about what is going on. The economy really took a toll on them. They’ve been very cooperative in working with us.”
Fleming said there are also several smaller local companies that have expressed interest in the building because they would be able to expand operations, Fleming said. They would not need the equipment inside and would likely either sell it or scrap it.
“I think he’s a got a great price and a great property, the question is, can he match it up with the right buyer?” Wood said.
County mulls $100K for EG
Friday, August 15, 2008
By Chris Gautz
cgautz@citpat.com
—768-4926
Jackson County might shell out an additional $100,000 to the county’s economic-development agency next month.
County officials have been more than pleased with Scott Fleming’s job performance since he took over as chief of the Enterprise Group in February.
``In years past there was a dissatisfaction with the EG. There was clearly no happiness with the direction the EG was going,’’ said Randy Treacher, county administrator and Enterprise Group board member. ``That has quickly changed with the direction of Scott, and they do need some financial assistance.’’
The county needs cash, too, with revenues continuing to fall as operating costs rise. Last week, commissioners announced they were looking at plans that could lead to the elimination of the equivalent of 331/2 positions by the end of 2010.
But Treacher said there is room in the budget this year for the one-time $100,000 donation.
``If one of the county’s goals is economic development and it leads to additional jobs, then frankly it needs to be a priority of ours,’’ he said.
The figure represents the total amount the county had cut from its annual donation to the Enterprise Group over the past five years.
The county has given the Enterprise Group $80,000 each year, so the additional $100,000 this year would bring this year’s total to $180,000. Treacher said as part of the proposal he will ask commissioners to increase the annual donation back to its previous level of $100,000.
In exchange for the donation, the county will ask for another seat on the Enterprise Group board. Treacher is the only member from the county administration on the board.
``If the county is going to be contributing the kind of money they are, they want a seat,’’ Treacher said.
Enterprise Group Board Chairman Ric Walton said the donation would coincide with the kickoff of the organization’s capital campaign.
``We’re very appreciative of their wanting to partner with us and financially help us out,’’ Walton said.
The Enterprise Group is hoping to raise $2 million in the next three years to finance its operations.
It has been five years since the last campaign, Walton said.
``It’s time to go out and raise money again,’’ he said.
Unlike a chamber of commerce, which typically generates revenue from fees it charges its members, the Enterprise Group subsists on donations from individuals, business and governmental entities, and grants and fees for services it provides.
Fleming—who took over for Steve Czarnecki, who led the organization since its inception a decade ago—said the group will be stepping up its marketing and attraction efforts.
Toward the end of Czarnecki’s tenure, county commissioners grew increasingly more vocal in their displeasure with his leadership, saying he wasn’t doing enough to attract businesses to the area.
When Fleming took over, he had to ask for a marketing budget, because the Enterprise Group didn’t have brochures touting the area’s attractions and potential.
``It costs more to attract businesses than it does to retain them,’’ Fleming said.
The county’s funding proposal will come up for a vote at the Sept. 23 county board meeting, Treacher said.
Great Lakes Industry to expand
Posted by Keith Roberts
Jackson Citizen Patriot
August 01, 2008 09:25AM
Great Lakes Industry is planning to create 15 jobs and buy nearly $2.5 million in new machinery and equipment.
Great Lakes President Larry Schultz told Blackman Township Board members Thursday the company is making the investment so it can further diversify and reach new markets. Such an approach is “the way manufacturers can survive and thrive” in the global economy, Schultz said.
Great Lakes Industry, 1927 Wildwood Ave., is an engineering and manufacturing company with 60 employees. It specializes in engineered belt drive systems, gears, sprockets, pulleys and drive train assemblies. The new equipment will allow the company to make more precise products, Schultz said.
The company is seeking a tax abatement on the investment that would save it $215,544 in property taxes over 12 years. The township board will vote on the request at its regular meeting at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Blackman Township Hall, 1990 W. Parnall Road.
At a work session Thursday, township Clerk Mike Thomas said he was all for helping Great Lakes create jobs. “We’ll take all we can get,” Thomas said.
The board also has a new procedure for reviewing companies that receive tax abatements. Amy Torres, director of economic development for The Enterprise Group of Jackson, will meet with company officials every two years to make sure they have created the jobs they said they would create.
Torres recently completed her first review and reported the results to the township board. The company, which is identified not by name but by a number to ensure confidentiality, said it was going to create 10 jobs in two years and did so.
“This is all we’ve been asking for,” Thomas said.
“You’ve got it,” Torres said.
Torres said she also discussed the review procedure with Great Lakes officials and they shared several ideas for improving it. She also commended the company for its expansion plans.
“Fifteen jobs is a lot of jobs in this era,” Torres said.
Jackson, four others fight for 3 SmartZones
Sunday, July 27, 2008
By Chris Gautz
cgautz@citpat.com—768-4926
After Jackson was denied a SmartZone designation in 2001, community leaders successfully lobbied state officials to create more, then applied again in June.
The idea was to show lawmakers and the Michigan Economic Development Corp. that Jackson was serious and had a plan that could flourish if the designation was awarded.
And since Jackson’s efforts led to the creation of three more SmartZone’s across the state, and the time frame to complete the application was short, community leaders here felt confident 2008 was their year.
But four other communities acted quickly, and are now competing with Jackson for as many as three SmartZone designations.
Macomb County, Wayne County, Saginaw and Sault Ste. Marie all submitted applications before the July 1 deadline, according to documents obtained by the Citizen Patriot under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act.
MEDC spokeswoman Bridget Beckman said a decision on awarding the designations will be made by an internal MEDC committee.
``It’s still being discussed,’’ she said.
Beckman said the winners will likely be announced before Nov. 1.
Local leaders said they are surprised that so many communities applied, but remain confident in Jackson’s chances.
``I don’t think anyone can doubt the community support and interest in it. We’re really sincere about getting this done,’’ Blackman Township Supervisor Ray Snell said. ``I’m hopeful we’ll receive one of the three.’’
SmartZones allow local governments to capture taxes generated by new businesses and use the money to provide infrastructure—such as roads, utilities and fiber optics. That infrastructure could help draw potential developers. There are 12 SmartZones in the state.
The Enterprise Group, the county’s economic-development agency, filed the SmartZone application in June on behalf of Blackman Township.
Last year, the community began to rally behind the effort and pushed lawmakers to create legislation creating three more SmartZones. In April, Gov. Jennifer Granholm signed the bill into law that gave Jackson a chance. As she did so, she was surrounded in her ceremonial office by more than 30 members of the Jackson Citizens for Economic Growth.
That grassroots organization—created a little more than a year ago—has pushed hard for the SmartZone, one of its top goals.
``I’m sure if we didn’t get it, JCEG would be at our legislators’ doors the next day asking for three more SmartZones,’’ said Scott Fleming, President and CEO of The Enterprise Group.
``And I would support that. There is a tenacity for this. Jackson won’t stop.’’
All five of the applications contain letters and signatures of support from area businesses, governmental and educational leaders. Jackson’s application had the most, with 35 people signing their names in support.
The MEDC initially declined to disclose which communities submitted applications until a decision was made, but did so after the Citizen Patriot FOIA request.
Jackson County’s proposed SmartZone in Blackman Township is 1,100 acres of mostly county-owned property and privately owned farmland cobbled together.
Its mission is to attract, retain and expand businesses focused on alternative energy, life sciences and advanced manufacturing. It will partner with Spring Arbor University, Baker College and Jackson Community College.
One thing that should help improve Jackson’s chances is that Blackman Township already has a Local Development Financing Authority established.
You can’t have a SmartZone without an LDFA, so if the other communities who are competing were to win a designation, they would have to establish an LDFA.
Snell said he thinks the fact that Jackson pushed for the SmartZone legislation could help assure that it wins one of the three designations.
``At the end of the day I think it will be a factor,’’ he said.
If Jackson is not awarded the designation, plans will still proceed with growing the LDFA and attempting to bring in new businesses, Snell said.
The SmartZone application will be used as a business plan for the county, he said.
Also, Fleming said his organization has a tentative agreement ready to be signed naming Jackson as a satellite SmartZone of the Wayne County Pinnacle Aeropark SmartZone. This could go forward regardless of whether Jackson receives its own SmartZone.
``That was guaranteed,’’ Fleming said.
Snell said people in Jackson shouldn’t be discouraged that there are more competing for the designation than they had anticipated
``It makes it exciting,’’ Snell said. ``Who is going to be crowned the winner? I think Jackson deserves one of those crowns.’’
Fleming: Jackson faces tough competition
Sunday, July 27, 2008
By Chris Gautz
cgautz@citpat.com—768-4926
Scott Fleming says Jackson has some tough competition in its quest to be designated as a SmartZone.
Four other communities—Macomb County, Wayne County, Saginaw and Sault Ste. Marie—all submitted SmartZone applications before the July 1 deadline, according to documents obtained by the Citizen Patriot.
After briefly reviewing the applications Friday, Fleming, President and CEO of The Enterprise Group, the county’s economic-development agency, said Saginaw and Macomb’s stood out as very strong.
``They are all legitimate applications,’’ he said.
The five areas are now competing for as many as three SmartZone designations.
Odail Thorns, director of development for the city of Saginaw, said the Saginaw Valley SmartZone would be a real opportunity to add to their medical industry.
``We want to have ourselves positioned to grow in that area,’’ Thorns said.
Thorns said they do not have an Local Development Financing Authority established, and would work to create one in the city on 400 acres along the Saginaw River.
``It enhances our ability to work with our universities,’’ he said.
He said the idea of the SmartZone and its potential is not well known in the community, but he believes it could be great, and they have already had meetings with investors.
The Macomb Technology Advancement SmartZone would focus on two key areas; defense and advanced manufacturing.
By 2010, it expects to create 12 new companies and employee 129 people. It would be teaming with Oakland University.
A representative from the area could not be reached for comment.
Chip Snider, township manager for the Charter Township of Northville, said they hope a Western Wayne County SmartZone will help attract businesses offering high-paying jobs in the defense and advanced manufacturing sectors.
``We’ve already created three new high-tech automotive businesses in the last year,’’ Snider said.
They do not have an LDFA established, and the SmartZone would be comprised of five, non-contiguous areas in Canton, Plymouth, Northville, and Redford Townships, and the city of Westland.
Snider said the proposed area in Northville township is 200 acres. Schoolcraft College, he said, is purchasing 36 acres in the area to build a police and fire academy.
Snider said they would use the taxes captured to fund infrastructure improvements, including roads, and sewer and water.
The Sault Ste. Marie SmartZone is projected to create a minimum of 230 direct jobs and would partner with Lake Superior State University.
It would focus on the ``design for manufacturing’’ stage to carry a prototype to sufficient detail that will enable mass production, according to its application.
A representative from the area could not be reached for comment.
Machine shop may hire 20
Friday, July 25, 2008
By Chris Gautz
cgautz@citpat.com
768-4926
A small, family-owned manufacturing business is looking to triple its work force by this time next year.
Scott Owen, president of D.W. Machine Inc., said he is planning a $200,000 investment that will nearly double the size of his small machine shop at 2501 Precision St. near Wildwood and Laurence avenues.
The 10 employees at D.W. Machine now do general machining, heat treating and machine building. The 16-year-old company makes components as small as a dime, up to parts that weigh 7,000 pounds, he said.
Within a year, Owen said he plans to hire about 20 people.
The expansion and additional employees are needed because of a new contract Owen secured recently to become the East Coast supplier of Nature’s Comfort wood boilers.
He drove out to visit with representatives from the Wisconsin company, and by the time he got back to his office, there was a purchase order waiting for him in his e-mail.
``He needs them right now,’’ Owen said.
Owen said the initial order is to produce 100 a month.
The outdoor boilers pump heat into a home or business, and Owen said it can create savings on energy bills.
Their popularity is growing, he said. In Michigan, Owen said more wood boilers were purchased last year than in the past 13 years combined.
They are not allowed for use in most cities, but many homes in the country use them, he said.
Owen said he learned of the new business opportunity and began inquiring about the expansion within the past two weeks.
Owen said he has been impressed with how quickly his questions have been answered and how much help he has received from The Enterprise Group, Blackman Township and state Rep. Mike Simpson.
``It’s so quick,’’ he said. ``It’s different from the past.’’
Amy Torres, economic development director for The Enterprise Group, the county’s economic development agency, is set to meet with Owen today about the options available to him, including financing for the project and seeking real and personal property tax abatements from the township.
``He’s excited about this prospect,’’ she said. ``That’s what we want to do is help businesses grow.’’
The company needs a variance from the township’s Zoning Board of Appeals because the addition will increase the percentage of buildings on the property beyond what is allowed by about 10 percent.
If approved, the addition would be completed in November, but Owen said he would hire six to eight new employees before that so they can begin building some of the boilers in the space they have.
His expansion plans include construction of a 2,160-square- foot building between his current 5,500-square-foot machine shop and his pole barn.
Blackman developing site
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
By Chris Gautz
cgautz@citpat.com—768-4926
Regardless of whether the state approves Jackson County’s SmartZone application, Blackman Township is moving forward with development plans to bring jobs to the area.
Blackman Township Supervisor Raymond Snell, who also chairs the township’s Local Development Financing Authority, said the township will be building a road, to be known as Technology Drive, inside an 80-acre site on County Farm Road, adjacent to TAC Manufacturing.
The site, within the 1,100-acre proposed SmartZone along I-94 and M-60, could be home to the SmartZone’s first new tenant.
``We’ll be finalizing the deal this week,’’ Snell said.
The unnamed manufacturing company, which is currently leasing space in the county, plans to build on four acres, he said. It would create a minimum of 10 jobs in five years, according to the SmartZone application.
Snell said the company hopes to be open by the end of the year. He also hopes companies inside the proposed SmartZone boundaries will choose to stay and expand.
Today is the Michigan Economic Development Corp.’s deadline for submitting applications. The MEDC is not releasing how many communities have submitted applications until a decision is made, according to spokeswoman Bridget Beckman.
Scott Fleming, president and CEO of The Enterprise Group, the county’s economic-development agency, delivered the county’s application for the SmartZone to the MEDC on Friday.
SmartZones allow local governments to capture business and school taxes generated by new businesses and use the money to provide infrastructure—such as roads, utilities and fiber optics—to support economic development and job growth.
Fleming said he is proud of the final product and doesn’t think other communities could put together a proposal with so much support between governmental entities and the community.
It contains a signature from a representative of every municipality in the county, members of the private sector and a letter of support from the county’s three higher-education institutions.
``We’re showing that we work together,’’ Fleming said.
The EG was paid $10,000 by the Blackman LDFA to write the 30-page SmartZone proposal, Snell said.
It also contains a detailed financial plan and describes its mission as attracting, retaining and expanding businesses focused on alternative energy, life sciences and advanced manufacturing.
Snell said the LDFA board also plans to allocate another $50,000 to the EG to market the SmartZone area.
Bruce Inosencio, a member of Jackson Citizens for Economic Growth, which helped push for the legislation that allowed three new SmartZones across the state, said he is pleased with the results.
``It will certainly benefit the community in the long run,’’ he said.
Business plan is given to state
Monday, June 30, 2008
By Chris Gautz
cgautz@citpat.com—768-4926
Scott Fleming hand-delivered a high-tech pen Friday morning to officials at the Michigan Economic Development Corp. The computerized file inside the pen contained the blueprint to Jackson County’s economic future, the county’s Smart-Zone application, said Fleming, President and CEO of The Enterprise Group, the county’s economic-development agency.
``This is a business plan for the whole community,’’ he said. Tuesday is the MEDC’s deadline for submitting applications, and Fleming said he believes Jackson may be one of the only communities to submit one. If that’s the case, he said officials might hear soon if the application is granted.
In April, Gov. Jennifer Gran-holm signed legislation that allowed three new SmartZones across the state, which was pushed for by the Jackson Citizens for Economic Growth. SmartZones allow local governments to capture business and school taxes generated by new businesses and use the money to provide infrastructure—such as roads, utilities and fiber optics—to support economic development and job growth.
More than 30 members of JCEG and its Youth Task Force were there to see Granholm sign the bill, and drive home the message that Jackson County wants a Smart-Zone. The SmartZone area is a large portion of Blackman Township’s Local Development Financing Authority, consisting of about 1,100 acres along I-94 and M-60.
The 30-page proposal contains a detailed financial plan and describes its mission as attracting, retaining and expanding businesses focused on alternative energy, life sciences and advanced manufacturing. It also contains a signature from a representative of every municipality in the county, members of the private sector and a letter of support from the county’s three higher education institutions. Ron Griffith, Spring Arbor University’s executive director of corporate and community relations and a JCEG member, said because of that, he thinks Jackson has a good chance of having it approved.
``We feel very confident that what we put together is a sound plan and benefits all aspects of the community,’’ he said. Griffith and Fleming said it was important for all groups in the community to have input on the plan, which made it harder to put together, but all the more worth it.
``It was one of the best efforts and evidence of a collaborative venture of so many entities that I’ve ever seen in all my years in Jackson,’’ Griffith said.
``It will demonstrate to outside investors that we have unity in the community.’’
SmartZone is one step closer
On behalf of the community and the Blackman Township Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA), The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Inc. submitted the Jackson Technology Park Smart Zone (JTPSZ) application to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation in Lansing on June 27. A SmartZone allows a community to capture taxes from an LDFA to create infrastructure improvements to attract high technology companies.
The proposed Jackson SmartZone encompasses a majority of the Blackman LDFA property. The Blackman LDFA, chaired by Raymond Snell, has been positioning itself to incorporate a high technology park over the years by expanding its boundaries and amending plans to place road and utility infrastructure into the 80-acre LDFA-owned property.
Capitalizing on the area’s best assets, the Smart Zone will serve as the catalyst to launch a technology cluster, targeting the same key industries that the State of Michigan targets. The entire Jackson community is committed and motivated to diversify its current economy, and is ready to embrace and become the home to the critical industries of tomorrow.
We are hopeful the community will receive a Smart Zone designation, said Scott Fleming, President & CEO of The Enterprise Group of Jackson. It would make our community much more attractive to potential new businesses.
The application process was a collaborative effort involving The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Jackson Citizens for Economic Growth, Baker College, Jackson Community College, Spring Arbor University, Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce, State Representatives Griffin and Simpson, State Senators Richardville and Schauer; and was endorsed by all local units of government.
The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Inc. (EG) was established in 1997 to lead business recruitment and retention in Jackson County. Their goal is to streamline the economic development process. The EG is comprised of Jackson’s leading business organizations: Jackson Area Manufacturers Association, Academy for Manufacturing Careers, Jackson Small Business & Technology Development Center, Procurement Technical Assistance Center of South Central Michigan, Armory Arts Village and the Economic Development Division - former Jackson Alliance for Business Development. For more information, visit The EG’s website at www.enterprisegroup.org.
Production Engineerings expansion plans bring new jobs to Jackson community
JACKSON, MICH. Production Engineering Inc., a manufacturer of precision machined components for specialty truck and construction equipment axles, has announced plans to relocate to the 440,000-square-foot former Goodyear warehouse in the City of Jackson and invest over $11 million to revamp the building. This move will create and retain 234 jobs, and potentially generate an additional 202 indirect jobs in the Jackson community.
The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Inc., in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, has been working with Production Engineering for the past year to find a location and financial package that meets their growing needs.
We are thrilled that Production Engineering has chosen to continue their position as a valuable asset to the Jackson community, said Scott Fleming, president and CEO of The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Inc.
Production Engineerings refurbishing plans include new electrical service enhancements, compressed air systems, lighting, water system, overhead cranes, offices and manufacturing support facilities.
Based on the MEDCs recommendation, the Michigan Economic Growth Authority approved a state tax credit valued at $3.4 million over 10 years. To support the project, the City of Jackson has proposed a 20-year personal property tax abatement and Renaissance Zone designation for a combined value of over $3.4 million.
The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Inc (EG) was established in 1997 to lead business recruitment and retention in Jackson County, Michigan. The EG is a private/public partnership organized to promote and coordinate economic development initiatives and create wealth within Jackson County. The EG is comprised of Jacksons leading business organizations. Visit The EG Web site at www.enterprisegroup.org
Jackson Area Manufacturers Association and The Academy for Manufacturing Careers Celebrates Certific
The Jackson Area Manufacturers Associations (JAMA) Academy for Manufacturing Careers is proud to announce the graduation of our students who have completed a Certificate Program. Graduates will be presented their certificates in a special ceremony and reception at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, June 30, 2008 at the Lenawee Economic Development Corporation (5285 West US Hwy 223, Suite A, Adrian, MI 49221- Lower Level of the Greenstone Farm Credit Services Building).
Graduation is a collaborative effort between JAMA, The Academy and South Central Michigan Works! (SCMW!). The Graduates include students who have completed 256 hours earning 16 college credits in the Welding Certificate Program, students who have completed 208 hours in the Screw Machine Certificate Program and students who have completed 224 hours earning 14 college credits in the CNC Certificate Program.
Manufacturers looking to hire skilled workers or anyone interested in learning more about The Academy for Manufacturing Careers are invited to attend the June 30th ceremony. To attend, please RSVP to Susan Soltis at susan@enterprisegroup.org or by phone at 517-782-8268 x 101.
Founded in 1937, the Jackson Area Manufacturers Association (JAMA) is a not-for-profit association with members throughout South Central Michigan. Through The Academy for Manufacturing Careers, JAMA offers skilled trades training designed by manufacturers to meet the needs of manufacturers while providing employees and potential employees the skills to be productive, highly qualified workers. For more information, please contact Annette Norris, The Academy’s Program Director by phone at (517) 782-8268, by fax at (517) 782-0061 or by email at anorris@enterprisegroup.org For information about JAMA you can visit www.jacksonjama.org on the Web.
Artists’ complex is more than half full
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
By Fredricka Paul
fpaul@citpat.com—768-4927
Jane Robinson thinks of herself as a proud mother to the artists who live in the Armory Arts Village.
Since opening in December, 45 of the 62 apartments have been leased and artists are making use of the studio and gallery space, said Robinson, director of the complex located near Cooper and Ganson streets.
Robinson said she hoped that the income-restricted community would be full by now, but was pleased occupancy is above projections that it would be half-filled by now. She expects it will be full before January.
``We are way ahead of schedule, so I am not concerned,’’ she said.
Resident Brandon Irish, 25, a music and art graduate of Hillsdale College, said the studio and gallery space are among the things that attracted him to Armory Arts. He also loves the huge windows that brighten his apartment.
Irish, a sculptor, decorated his apartment with driftwood he has collected from family trips to the Great Lakes. Each piece has a different memory, he said. He even turned one large piece into a pot rack attached to the ceiling of his kitchen.
He hopes to live in Europe someday.
Robinson said there are only a few residents who are not full-time artists. Because of fair-housing laws, the community is open to all who meet the requirements, but its amenities, such as the gallery and studio, appeal primarily to artists.
Painters, graphic designers, poets and musicians are among the artists who live in the complex, she said.
Residents are helping Robinson promote the village by spreading the word on blogs and online forums.
The residents have become part of the Jackson community by having their work displayed around town and teaching classes to area youth. Some of the residents have also started giving private lessons, she said.
Residents are also taking business classes once a week, Robinson said.
LOCAL GOVERNMENTAL UNITS MUST ACT IMMEDIATELY TO RECOVER LOST TAX REVENUE
The Michigan Townships Association announced that Local Tax Capture Authorities Have Until JUNE 15 to Recover Lost Tax Revenue
Legislation that allows local tax capture authorities to receive compensation for revenues that were lost due to the exemption of certain personal property from taxation was signed into law on Thursday, creating Public Acts 154-157 of 2008. Last Fall, the Legislature exempted industrial personal property from both the 6 mill State Education Tax and the 18 mill school operating tax. They also exempted commercial personal property from 12 mills of the school sperating tax. Generally, this impacted school operating revenue. However, in certain situations, those revenues are captured for economic development programs such as Downtown Development Authorities (DDA), Tax Increment Finance Authorities (TIFA), Local Development Finance Authorities (LDFA) and Brownfield Redevelopment Authorities (BRA). The Department of Treasury has created an application form--4650 Request for State Reimbursement of Tax Increment Revenue Decreases--for local tax capture authorities to seek reimbursement for revenue loss caused by the change in the tax law. DDAs, TIFAs, LDFAs and Brownfield Authorities which capture school taxes have until JUNE 15 to file the form seeking approval for compensation for this year’s revenue loss. The new law requires pre-approval by the state before locals can be compensated. All applications must be filed online. The form can be found at http://www.michigan.gov/treasury/0,1607,7-121-1751---,00.html.
Helpful links:
www.michigan.gov/treasury
www.michigantownships.org
Pharmaceutical support firm already planning expansion
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
By Keith Roberts
kroberts@citpat.com—768-4922
At most ribbon-cutting ceremonies for new companies, officials say how happy they are to be in business.
Dan Ross, president of TransPharm Preclinical Solutions, said it’s been exhilarating to start his own business and he’s excited about the prospects of making money. But his focus isn’t on opening the business. It’s on growing it.
After Monday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony for the company’s 6,200-square-foot facility in Napoleon Township, Ross said he plans to lease space to other companies for use during off hours, add more office space for his employees and expand the facility for other companies interested in moving there.
TransPharm Preclinical Solutions opened in mid-April at 7190 S. Brooklyn Road and has five employees. All of them, including Ross, are former employees of Pfizer in Ann Arbor.
Ross said he learned of Pfizer’s closing in January 2007, and unlike some of his colleagues there who considered taking jobs with other companies, he was determined to start his own business.
So by the time he left Pfizer in July, he was well on his way to starting TransPharm.
``I think the advantage for me was this was Plan A from the beginning,’’ Ross said.
TransPharm, whose motto is ``Working with us is contagious,’’ does infectious-disease studies for pharmaceutical companies.
About 70 people attended the ceremony Monday, including numerous state and local representatives and leaders of the Jackson Citizens for Economic Growth and the Brooklyn, Napoleon and Greater Jackson chambers of commerce.
State Sen. Mark Schauer, D-Battle Creek, who helped TransPharm get a $400,000 loan from a special fund within the Michigan Economic Development Corp.’s 21st Century Jobs Fund, said the turnout showed how much the community cares about jobs in times like these.
``This is not only a success story. It’s a signal to folks in the community and from outside the community this is fertile ground for entrepreneurial activity and high-tech job creation,’’ Schauer said.
Valerie Hoag, director of the 21st Century Jobs Fund, said she was glad to help TransPharm.
``I think it’s great for Jackson,’’ Hoag said. ``I hope they grow fast and create a lot of jobs.’’
Ross plans to seek another loan to help pay for the expansion.
Hoag said she couldn’t say what TransPharm’s chance of getting it is, but judging from what she already knows about the company, its application should be competitive.
Tom Grace, director of Jackson Citizens for Economic Growth, said TransPharm might be small now, but it has a lot of potential to grow and help bring other companies here to grow with it.
``Each little company is going to create its own little satellite,’’ Grace said. ``I think this is only the beginning.’’
City has a say in effort to keep company in county
Monday, April 21, 2008
By Fredricka Paul
fpaul@citpat.com—768-4927
Keeping Production Engineering in the county is now in the hands of the Jackson City Council.
The city and Blackman Township are in negotiations about a proposed revenue-sharing agreement that would allow 15 acres—planned for Production Engineering’s new plant—to be designated as a Renaissance Zone and qualify for a tax abatement.
City officials hope to meet with township officials soon to discuss the package.
``For the most part we are pretty comfortable with it,’’ Councilman Andrew Frounfelker said.
Production Engineering, 2330 Brooklyn Road in Summit Township, has outgrown its plant and has said it may move to northern Indiana. It employs 130.
The township board Thursday approved an agreement in concept that would help keep the company here.
The next step involves getting approval from the City Council for the Renaissance Zone, and getting the Michigan Economic Development Corp. to approve a tax incentive package.
If the deal goes through, Production Engineering would buy the 15 acres from the Blackman Township Local Development Finance Authority for $100,000. The company would invest $12.75 million in a new plant and equipment. It would add 25 workers the first year and 15 workers a year for several more years.
There is legislation in place that allows Jackson five Renaissance Zones; one would be used in Blackman for the project, City Manager William Ross said.
Councilman John Polaczyk said it would be ideal for Production Engineering to utilize brownfield space within the city. However, he would be happy to see the company stay within the county.
``We need to do everything we can to keep them here,’’ Polaczyk said.
Tax break eyed to keep plant
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
By Keith Roberts
kroberts@citpat.com—768-4922
Production Engineering has outgrown its Summit Township plant and could move to Indiana.
But Blackman Township and Jackson officials are considering an agreement to give the company a tax break to keep the plant—and its 300 jobs—here.
Production Engineering’s 65,000-square-foot plant at 2330 Brooklyn Road was built in 1982, expanded in 1989 and 1994, and can’t be expanded any more, said Jim Jansen, president and co-owner of the company.
``We have to look at our best viable options,’’ Jansen said Monday. ``We have to find or build a larger facility.’’
Jansen said the company is looking at an existing building in northern Indiana but would rather build a new, 100,000-square-foot building on 15 acres on County Farm Road owned by the Blackman Township Local Development Finance Authority, a move proposed by the Michigan Economic Development Corp. The Blackman land is next to TAC Manufacturing.
Production Engineering, a family-owned business started in 1974, makes precision-machined parts—primarily drive train and steering components for heavy trucks, construction equipment and materials-handling industries.
The company has about 130 employees and expects to add 15 to 20 jobs per year if it can expand. ``We do expect continued growth,’’ Jansen said.
The Blackman Township Board has called a special meeting for 6 p.m. Thursday to discuss an agreement with the Jackson City Council to facilitate the move.
Jansen said he is optimistic the township board will approve the agreement.
``You never know the results of the vote, but I think it’s in the best interest of Jackson County and the best interest of Production Engineering if we have a positive vote,’’ he said.
Blackman Township Supervisor Raymond Snell was cautious but said the board is always looking to do what it can to promote economic development.
``It’s easier to keep what you have than try to recruit new (businesses),’’ Snell said. ``That’s what the board is considering.’’
Snell said even though the property is in the township, only the city can designate it as a Renaissance Zone and make it eligible for property tax abatement for up to 20 years, so the township needs the City Council’s help.
``This all depends on everything working together,’’ Snell said.
Under the agreement, the township would transfer jurisdiction of the property to the city for tax purposes, but the city would have limited authority over it.
Snell said he didn’t have an estimate of the property tax savings for the company, but it would be substantial. Jansen said he didn’t have an estimate either and the tax savings aren’t as important as having room to grow.
If the township approves the agreement, the city would consider it. City Manager William Ross said the company has roots in the community and no one wants it to leave because it doesn’t have room to grow.
``Certainly in today’s economic times you don’t want to be losing those jobs in the community if you can help it,’’ Ross said.
But Ross said while he has discussed the agreement with Snell, City Council members haven’t had a chance to discuss it with their counterparts on the township board.
``There needs to be some discussion of issues so this can move forward,’’ Ross said.
Summit Township Supervisor James Dunn said he doesn’t want to lose Production Engineering, but the company looked for other locations in Summit Township and didn’t find any, and he would much rather see it go to Blackman Township than Indiana.
``We need to make sure we are supportive of businesses that want to be in the Jackson area whether it’s Summit Township or not,’’ Dunn said.
County, city awarded a combined $1.4 million to clean up brownfields
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
By Kristin Longley
klongley@citpat.com—768-4917
The county and city of Jackson have won a combined $1.4 million in grants from the federal government to deal with potentially hazardous sites that could be redeveloped, officials announced Tuesday.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency awarded the Jackson Brownfield Redevelopment Authority $1 million for cleanup and the county Brownfield Redevelopment Authority two $200,000 grants—one for hazardous substance testing and one for petroleum testing.
``This is a big deal for the city and county,’’ said Deborah Stuart, the city’s economic development project manager. ``There’s a lot of money from the federal government being funneled into Jackson County.’’
When manufacturing companies leave an area, they often leave potentially hazardous substances lurking beneath vacant buildings that were once thriving industrial sites. Cleaning up the leftovers is expensive, but the grants help attract developers.
Brownfield programs such as the city’s and county’s allow developers to assess and clean up those properties, known as brownfields. The goal is to sustainably reuse the old sites and minimize neighborhood blight.
The city brownfield authority would like to focus its grant funds along the Grand River and at its former manufacturing sites, Stuart said.
There were 60 applicants nationwide for the cleanup funds, and the city was one of 12 that was awarded the grants.
The county authority is focusing on the Wildwood Avenue corridor where the former Plastigage factory and TRW Automotive sites were located, and at the former Michigan Industrial Holdings Inc. site on Leroy Street, said Amy Torres, executive director.
The grant application said widespread groundwater problems exist near the former TRW plant and near the former landfills on airport property.
The brownfield authorities plan to promote all those sites—along with the new cleanup and assessment grants—at the National Brownfields Conference in May in Detroit with the hope that a developer will take interest, she said.
The grant money is crucial to Jackson County’s economic development because of its rich automotive and industrial history, Torres said. There are more than 100 brownfield properties in the area.
``This is a great economic tool for us,’’ she said. ``We’re really lucky to have access to these funds.’’
EG’s work is praised
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
By Kristin Longley
klongley@citpat.com—768-4917
One year ago this week, Jackson County commissioners slammed The Enterprise Group during its biannual progress report, calling the economic development agency disconnected and slow-moving.
This spring’s report was a far cry from that scene, from the information presented—Chinese business representatives were to be in town today—to the man in the hot seat.
Instead of offering criticism, commissioners listened quietly Monday as new Enterprise Group CEO Scott Fleming described his tactics for retaining businesses, training the local work force and attracting new companies to Jackson County.
Lending credibility to his plans, Fleming said The Enterprise Group was to meet with the Chinese officials to discuss local opportunities for them. The meeting was to take place this morning at Bella Notte Ristorante, he said.
Local business owners from a variety of fields will meet with the Chinese. Businesspeople from the two countries will get to know each other and give them a chance to possibly locate their businesses in the Jackson area.
Chinese representatives from six or more businesses will be given gifts from The Enterprise Group and a Michigan-shaped basket filled with products made in Jackson, courtesy of the Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce and the Jackson County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Fleming also said he is talking with a technology firm from out West about local development. He referred to the company using the code name ``Global Solutions’’ to protect its anonymity.
Along with Enterprise Group Economic Development Director Amy Torres, Fleming announced the agency’s new Web site, www.enterprisegroup.org, which also can be accessed from www.selectjackson.com.
Their report to commissioners came in the form of an ``Economic Development Scorecard’’ that Fleming pledged to deliver periodically. Categories include business-attraction activity, business retention calls and events and seminars. Future categories are planned for businesses that are threatening to leave, of which there are a few, and businesses that are growing and asking for assistance, he said.
``There’s more accountability going on at the EG than there was before,’’ Fleming said. ``There are other projects we’re looking at for increasing the credibility of The Enterprise Group.’’
This time last year, The Enterprise Group’s then-CEO Steve Czarnecki contended that luring businesses away from other counties was unethical and basically ``stealing.’’ Instead, Czarnecki, who is now retired, said he preferred to let other companies know that Jackson County was ``open for business,’’ which was unacceptable to some commissioners.
The Enterprise Group’s agreement with the county says it will ``market and sell Jackson County to companies outside the county and structure deals to bring them to the county.’’
Commissioners praised Fleming and Torres for their approach.
``This is the most impressive and optimistic presentation The Enterprise Group has made in the years I’ve been a county commissioner,’’ Commissioner Philip Duckham said.
Commissioner Mike Brown added: ``It is so good to hear you’re going to use money to market Jackson.’’
-- Staff writer Chris Gautz contributed to this story.
Real World Fixes for Small Manufacturers
Through the Jackson Area Manufacturers Association (JAMA), The Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC), an Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) partner, brings leading-edge solutions to small manufacturers that typically are available only to much larger scale enterprises. For Rives Manufacturing in Rives Junction, MMTC training helped the company’s 50 employees adopt Lean Manufacturing practices that have cut lead times by 66%, to eight days, resolved customer quality issues and shown initial savings of $20,000. “MMTC’s training was very realistic,” said Becki Job, a quality engineer and MMTC-trained Lean Champion. “Unlike other seminar, the training took very little effort to apply to real life issues on the job.”
Trans Pharm Settling Into Jackson
Trans Pharm received the first 200,000 draw from the state a couple weeks ago. All of the lab equipment is being moved back into the lab and yesterday their first hire started. The second hire will be here Feb. 4th and the entire company will be here for a photo shoot for our website and brochures. Trans Pharm is the first life science company in Jackson County. Today is the 1 year anniversary of the announcement of the Ann Arbor Pfizer facility. On paper we are officially open today, but we are a couple of weeks away from running in house validation experiments.