|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Flex Films to Hold Job Fair (01/10/12)
Flex Films(USA) will host a job fair at the Pritchard Community Center on Thursday, January 26, 2012. Prospective employees will be able to obtain information and apply for available jobs with the company.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
FLEX FILMS, (USA), INC. BEGINS CONSTRUCTION (11/3/11)
FLEX FILMS, (USA), INC. BEGINS CONSTRUCTION
Representatives from Flex Films, an India based company, along with Governor Steven Beshear, Mayor Tim Walker, other local dignitaries and approximately 170 guests where on hand on Friday, October 28, 2011, for the official ground blessing of the site for the new manufacturing facility being located at 1221 North Black Branch Road. Phase 1 of the facility will bring approximately 125 jobs when completed late next year. Phase 2 will bring an additional 125 jobs and is projected to begin in early 2013.
The Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation would like to welcome Flex Films (USA) to the TJ Patterson Industrial Park and looks forward to working with them in the future as they bring quality jobs to our City.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Elizabethtown Sports Park (9/7/11)
The Elizabethtown Sports Park was featured in an article in the 9/7/11 edition of the New York Times--To Bolster Family Tourism, Fields of Play for Young Athletes by Keith Schneider. Check out this article at http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/07/realestate/commercial/youth-sports-park-in-kentucky-to-bolster-tourism.html
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Personal Income Growth in Elizabethtown rose 10.1% in 2010 (8/9/11)
Personal Income for Metropolitan Areas, 2010
WASHINGTON DC, August 9, 2011 – Personal income rose in 2010 in all but four of the nation’s 366 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs), according to estimates released today by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. Personal income in the metropolitan portion of the United States rose 2.9 percent in 2010 after falling 1.9 percent in 2009. Personal income growth in 2010 ranged from 10.1 percent in Elizabethtown, Kentucky to -0.9 percent in Grand Junction, Colorado. Inflation, as measured by the national price index for personal consumption expenditures, accelerated to 1.8 percent in 2010 from 0.2 percent in 2009.
See link for more information:
http://www.bea.gov/newsreleases/regional/mpi/mpi_newsrelease.htm
|
< Top of Page >
|
Gates Elizabethtown Plant Receives Key Awards (July 25, 2011)
ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Gates power transmission facility and its employees in Elizabethtown, Ky. were named recipients of a key supplier award in May from long-time, valued customer Harley-Davidson for participation in the company’s Supplier Continuous Improvement Process. The award recognizes excellence in broad business management, quality, cost, delivery, technology and continuous improvement. Elizabethtown employees were honored for exceeding all performance improvement goals and best-in-class metrics established by Harley-Davidson.
“This is a great achievement for the Elizabethtown facility, and I can tell you all associates are very proud to be recognized for their performance and commitment to continuous improvement. We are thrilled to move forward with new growth projects with Harley-Davidson.”
In acknowledging the performance by the Elizabethtown facility, Harley-Davidson Vice President of Materials Management Paul Wiers noted, “Gates exceeded all performance improvement goals and best-in-class metrics established by Harley-Davidson. The company demonstrated truly outstanding performance.”
Tribby Warfield, President of Gates Commercial North America, said, “This is a great achievement for the Elizabethtown facility, and I can tell you all associates are very proud to be recognized for their performance and commitment to continuous improvement. We are thrilled to move forward with new growth projects with Harley-Davidson.”
The Elizabethtown plant recently had the distinction of receiving the first annual President’s Award for 2010 by Gates Corporation. This newly established award recognizes Gates manufacturing facilities in North America that make the most overall improvement over the prior year. The Elizabethtown plant reduced costs across the board while also increasing sales.
Ken Friedman, President of Gates Operations, presented the Gates award to Larry Brewer, Elizabethtown plant manager, in Denver, Colo., earlier this year. Joining in the presentation was Warfield and James McCoy, Vice President, North America Operations. A second presentation took place in Elizabethtown and included many of the plant’s 163 employees.
The Gates Elizabethtown facility produces recreational and industrial belts. In addition to Harley-Davidson, customers include Yamaha, Kawasaki and various industrial facilities worldwide. The plant is certified to the highest safety and quality standards through ISO 14001/18001 and TS16949.
Gates Corporation this year marks its 100th anniversary, and celebrates its position as a world leader in engineering, manufacturing, marketing and distribution of industrial and automotive belt and hose products, systems, components and services. For more information on the Gates Centennial go to www.gates.com/100.
About Gates Corporation
Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2011, Gates Corporation (gates.com) is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of industrial and automotive products, systems and components with operations in 29 countries. Gates maintains sales and marketing operations in every major industrial and automotive market, including North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and the Middle East. Gates is part of the Industrial & Automotive group of Tomkins Ltd., which is owned by a consortium comprising Onex Corporation and the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board. Tomkins enjoys strong market positions and technical leadership across all of its business activities and owns some of the best-known brands in their respective markets.
Contacts
Gates Corporation
Mari Jane Panek, 303-744-4533
mjpanek@gates.com
|
< Top of Page >
|
Manufacturing Facility for Sale or Lease (July 2011)
The Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation has acquired the manufacturing facility located at 333 Peterson Drive, Elizabethtown, KY and is offering it for sale or lease to a manufacturing company wanting to locate in a premier industrial park. This outstanding manufacturing facility has a total of 88,530 sq. ft. and is expandable to 160,000 sq. ft. The site is bordered in the rear by the Paducah & Louisville Railway making rail service possible. The building is a Butler pre-engineered metal building constructed on heavy load bearing 9” concrete footings. Eve heights of the manufacturing/warehouse are 30’ and 32’. The area is two long rectangular bays measuring approx 422’ x 100 with no columns. Each bay is clear span and is equipped with heavy crane ways. Please visit our “Download” section and checkout the property description under “Brochures” for pictures and more information. Direct contact can be made by calling us at 270-737-0300 or by email to rgames@eifky.org.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Elizabethtown MSA Ranked #11 in Best Small Cities for Job Growth in the United States (May 2011)
May 2011--According to an article recently published in Forbes, the Elizabethtown, KY MSA has been ranked as #11 out of a field of 398 for Best Small Cities for Job Growth in the United States for 2011. The ranking for 2010 was #77. Additionally, the Elizabethtown MSA was ranked at #16 in the category of “all cities” for Job Growth. The ranking for 2010 was #103. The data supplied was based on criteria derived by NewGeorgraphy.com, which is a site devoted to analyzing and discussing the places where we live and work. Data used included employment data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported from November 1999 to January 2011. Rankings are based on a recent growth trends, mid-term growth and long-term growth and momentum.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
UFLEX Ltd. To Locate First U.S. Operation in Elizabethtown
ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. (April 13, 2011) – Following a weekend trip to New Delhi, India to finalize negotiations with UFLEX Ltd., Gov. Steve Beshear today joined company officials and community leaders in Elizabethtown to announce the flexible packaging company will locate its first U.S. manufacturing plant in Hardin County. The new location project will occur in phases, initially creating 125 new jobs and a $90 million investment, ultimately doubling in scope for a total investment of at least $180 million and 250 jobs.
UFLEX’s location stems from Governor Beshear’s first economic development trip to India last fall. UFLEX garnered interest in the Commonwealth after learning about the Governor’s efforts to increase foreign direct investment opportunities for Indian companies in Kentucky. The company made its first site visit to Kentucky in January. At least six states were considered by the company.
“Today’s announcement that UFLEX will locate its first U.S. operation in the Commonwealth demonstrates the value of our steadfast efforts to promote economic development opportunities on a global scale,” said Gov. Beshear. “India is one of the largest and fastest-growing economies in the world and represents unlimited potential for cultivating job and investment growth. I am thrilled Kentucky is the location of choice for this $180 million investment, one that will create at least 250 jobs.”
UFLEX has indicated that the first phase of the project will be operational by the end of 2012. The second phase would begin shortly thereafter.
“It is our corporate mission to become one of the most admired companies in the global flexible packaging business. Toward this objective, our Group philosophy has always been to progress through internal growth and better customer service by setting up new manufacturing plants as close as possible to our major markets using state-of-the-art technology and investing in global scales of production,” said Ashok Chaturvedi, chairman of UFLEX. “We are very upbeat about our U.S. manufacturing venture and look forward to a life-long and rewarding relationship with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, whom we decided to partner with after a detailed evaluation of several potential sites in the USA, as they eminently fulfilled all our criteria. The USA is the world’s largest and most technologically advanced packaging market and our first manufacturing plant here will be a high point of our leadership ambitions in this business.”
“Being active with large production facilities at strategically located sites around the world has always been our long-term corporate imperative and what better location could we look for than being in the heart of the world’s largest and most advanced packaging market,” added PradeepTyle, CEO of Flex Films. “This will reinforce our leadership position as being the world’s largest supplier of polyester films for packaging applications, our service orientation and commitment to our valued customers, who can now look forward to having a vital business partner located next door.”
Established in 1983, the multi-faceted organization is a leading manufacturer of polyester chips, specialty films, coated and metallized film, laminates, pouches, holographic films, gravure cylinders, flexographic plates, inks and adhesives to all types of packaging and printing/converting machines, offering total flexible packaging solutions. UFLEX currently operates state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in India, Dubai, Mexico and Egypt and is setting up another operation in Poland. It has also established offices all over the world and has a market presence in 110 countries.
To make this investment possible, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority preliminarily approved UFLEX Ltd. at a special board meeting today for tax incentives up to $20 million through the Kentucky Business Investment program. The performance-based incentive allows the company to keep a portion of its investment over a10-year period through corporate income tax credits and wage assessments by meeting job and investment targets.
“The announcement of UFLEX locating in the TJ Patterson Industrial park will be a wonderful and welcome addition to our local economy and our area workforce,” said Sen. Dennis Parrett, of Elizabethtown. “I commend the efforts of the Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation to help secure the commitment of such a quality company to Hardin County.”
“I am excited that the citizens of Elizabethtown/Hardin County will have the opportunity for new employment with the announcement today of UFLEX locating in our community,” said Rep. Jimmie Lee, of Elizabethtown. “I am also sure that company officials will realize that they made the right decision to locate here when they recognize the dedication and work ethics of our citizens.”
“This is an excellent opportunity to create yet another long-term relationship with an international corporation right here in Hardin County,” said Hardin County Judge Executive Harry L. Berry. “The hundreds of jobs and $180-plus million in construction this project brings is a big boost to continuing our strong economic growth within this region. We are excited UFLEX chose our community to be their first manufacturing venture in the United States. We look forward to decades of continued partnership and growth!”
“I’m very excited and honored to have UFLEX locate their first U.S. plant here in Elizabethtown,” said Elizabethtown Mayor Tim Walker. “I also feel UFLEX will add diversity to our industrial community and much-needed new jobs to our economy. We believe this important investment reflects the support that the local community exhibits for industrial development.”
For more information on UFLEX, visit http://uflexltd.com.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Greg Jenkins elected as Chairman of Economic Development Council (02/24/11)
Greg Jenkins has been elected as the Chairman of the Economic Development Council of the newly formed Hardin County Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Tom Davenport of the Elizabethtown Community and Technical College has been elected as the Vice-Chairman.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
iPay Technologies--Top Workplaces List (02/01/11)
iPay Technologies Named to Louisville Area’s
Top Workplaces List
Recognition signifies commitment to providing employees with
top quality workplace experience
Monett, Mo. – Feb. 1, 2011 - Jack Henry & Associates, Inc. (NASDAQ:JKHY), a leading provider of computer systems and electronic payment solutions primarily for financial services organizations, today announced that its iPay Technologies division has been named to the Louisville, Ky.-based Courier-Journal’s list of Top Workplaces 2011.
Top Workplaces recognizes organizations that provide a superior level of professional growth opportunities, managerial qualities, and environmental conditions to their employees, as determined by their employees. iPay was one of only 15 companies selected for this list that were categorized as Louisville region mid-size employers.
Bill Ready, president of iPay Technologies, said, "Employees want the satisfaction of knowing they are contributors in the workplace, and that their place of work represents a meaningful part of that community. iPay values each of our employees and his or her perspective on corporate initiatives and office dynamics, and contribution to our progress and performance. We strive to be a workplace of excellence so receiving this recognition further validates that our efforts have been effective and impactful."
The Top Workplaces program requires that after companies are nominated as contenders, their employees respond to a detailed survey that evaluates six key areas of the workplace: direction, execution, career, conditions, managers, and pay and benefits. This feedback is weighted against other companies in the same category and ranked.
Jack Prim, CEO of Jack Henry & Associates, added, "We appreciate the outstanding efforts of the Elizabethtown office and the contribution of every JHA employee. Our employees’ hard work and continued commitment to the company, its core values, and our customers are tremendous."
About iPay Technologies
iPay Technologies is a leading provider of online bill payment solutions that incorporate a sophisticated bill pay engine that easily integrates with any online banking platform, best-of-breed retail and small business bill payment solutions, extensive payments expertise, and outstanding service. Through strategic partnerships with more than 50 providers of information processing and online banking solutions, iPay’s turnkey, highly configurable electronic payments platform is supporting more than 3,600 banks and credit unions, including more than half of the nation’s credit unions and approximately 40 percent of the nation’s community banks that offer bill payment services. Additional information is available at www.ipaytechnologies.com.
About Jack Henry & Associates, Inc.
Jack Henry & Associates, Inc. (Nasdaq: JKHY) is a leading provider of computer systems and electronic payment solutions primarily for financial services organizations. Its technology solutions serve more than 11,200 customers nationwide, and are marketed and supported through four primary brands. Jack Henry Banking™ supports banks ranging from de novo to mid-tier institutions with information processing solutions. Symitar™ is the leading provider of information processing solutions for credit unions of all sizes. ProfitStars® provides highly specialized products and services that enable financial institutions of every asset size and charter, and diverse corporate entities to mitigate and control risks, optimize revenue and growth opportunities, and contain costs. iPay Technologies operates as a leading electronic bill pay provider supporting banks and credit unions with turnkey, highly configurable retail and small business electronic payment platforms. Additional information is available at www.jackhenry.com. Press Contact: Kelsey Ball, Marketing Support Specialist
(704) 357-0298
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development Welcomes China Chamber of Commerce (01/18/11)
Rick Games, President of the Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation attended a reception in Frankfort on Tuesday, January 18 arranged by the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development to welcome the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronics (CCCME) and a delegation of more than 60 business representatives that were on a two-day visit to Kentucky. The group chose Kentucky as one of three stops on their U.S. mission, which was part of China President Hu Jintao’s U.S. visit Jan. 19-21. CCCME chose Kentucky in part for its shared goal to increase global business connections.
The CCCME delegation includes private and state-owned Chinese enterprises representing more than a dozen industry sectors, including automotive, alternative energy, environmental technology, machinery and electronic manufacturing and more.
CCCME is the largest of seven import/export associations under the direct administration of the Ministry of Commerce. Its membership includes approximately 10,000 member companies in a wide variety of industry sectors. The organization has a genuine interest in finding opportunities to do business in the American market, a market that is perceived to be very difficult to enter.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Garrison Commander engages elected officials about post transformation (January 18, 2011)
The News Enterprise 1/18/11 by Marty Finley---Col. Eric Schwartz made clear Tuesday night that he wants no barriers to separate Fort Knox from the communities that house and take care of its soldiers. Describing himself as a “tandem mayor” alongside Radcliff Mayor J.J. Duvall, Schwartz told a small crowd gathered at Colvin Community Center that security restrictions at Fort Knox are not in place to hide anything, but to provide the safety residents surrounding the post demand.
“There is no iron curtain,” he said. “There is no great secret at Fort Knox. That is your Fort Knox.”
Schwartz updated elected officials and local residents on the status of the Base Realignment and Closure Initiative mandated by Congress while reminding those in attendance how important a role their actions play in nurturing soldiers and their families during the transition. Duvall also presented Schwartz with the title of Kentucky Colonel during the forum.
Since 2005, the post has gradually transformed into a multi-functional facility, shedding the Armor Center and School and welcoming the Human Resource Center of Excellence, a sprawling 883,000-square-foot epicenter that encapsulates multiple commands, including U.S. Army Accessions Command, Cadet Command, Human Resources Command and Recruiting Command.
With a roughly $210 million price tag, the facility is the largest office complex in Kentucky and was named in honor of Lt. Gen. Timothy J. Maude, the highest ranking officer killed in the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the Pentagon.
In combination, the last of roughly 3,500 soldiers are deploying from Fort Knox to Afghanistan for a 12-month tour as part of the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, and Schwartz said it is vital the communities support the families left behind.
BRAC is congressionally mandated to be complete by Sept. 15, and Schwartz said the post is on track to meet the goal and keep the transformation within budgetary constraints. In doing so, he added, the post has not had to compromise its vision or shrink any projects to meet the mandate.
At the same time, he told the crowd the ripple effects of the transformation are far from over.
In economic impact alone, the numbers are staggering, Schwartz said. In all, roughly $814 million in construction has been spent during the last six years on facilities such as the barracks for the 3/1 and the Maude complex.
“That is super economic stimulus,” Schwartz said.
The improvements also include installation growth, such as widening Wilson Road and the expansion of a convenience store/ gas station on post.
Quality-of-life improvements also have been pursued, including an amphitheater, youth sports complex and new on-post housing, according to Schwartz’s report. Between 400 and 600 homes were removed from post, he said, to make room for new duplexes and standalone homes.
An additional $124 million of construction is in progress, such as a new warrior transition complex for wounded soldiers.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also has received approval to select a design team for a new hospital, which Schwartz said would take years to complete and nearly $500 million to build.
While expensive, Schwartz said a new hospital is needed, as the current hospital on post is the oldest in the Army.
Prior to BRAC, the post served about 32,000. During its peak, known as the “Big Inhale,” the post was projected to reach a population of 42,000.
Schwartz said the number would taper off by 2012, when the post stabilizes to around 39,000.
The growth, however, has created about a $40 million increase in Fort Knox’s annual payroll, to about $623 million, according to the U.S. Army.
And jobs are available on post, primarily in information technology and human resources. To qualify, Schwartz said applicants need “robust” resumes and a healthy dose of patience.
And with Armor fully transitioning to Fort Benning, Ga., this year, Schwartz said the post is working with those who will lose their job with Armor to re-educate them and give them priority in the hiring process if they are qualified for a position. Many, though, are moving with their jobs to Fort Benning, he said.
And Schwartz said the communities could build on their relationships with the post by thanking a soldier for their service and their families for letting them serve.
“The story (of Fort Knox) is not the brick and mortar, and the roads, and the Human Resources building,” he said. “It’s about the soldiers and families.”
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Glendale Megasite Interconnect Completion
The Glendale Megasite is one step closer to accommodating a major industrial customer. On January 6, 2011, employees of Hardin County Water District No. 2 completed the construction of 28,388 feet of 24” and 16” ductile iron pipe line that will serve the 1551 acre industrial site. The carrying capacity of the water line to the site is 4.5 million gallons per day. “The project was partially funded by $1.75 million in grants from the 2006 Kentucky General Assembly. These grant dollars were stretched, literally, to this site because of the skill and expertise of our in-house construction crew,” said James Jeffries, General Manager. “Whatever concerns a potential industrial customer of the site would have regarding the Water District’s ability to serve; from this day forward those concerns are laid to rest.”
This line marks the first utility to be installed on the site.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Fischbach Investing $8.7 Million in Elizabethtown Plant
Gov. Steve Beshear announced that Fischbach USA, a world leader in supplying plastic packaging to sealant and adhesive customers, will invest nearly $8.7 million in its Elizabethtown plant. The project, which was aided by a state incentive program encouraging companies to reinvest in Kentucky facilities, will result in increased facility capacity and efficiency, allowing the company to remain competitive and maintain its 76 employees. The investment will also entail the addition of a new food packaging product line.
“Kentucky takes great pride in its ability to partner with existing industries like Fischbach to secure additional investments in Kentucky facilities and save Kentucky jobs,” said Gov. Beshear. “Fischbach’s multi-million dollar investment will not only improve efficiencies at the plant and increase capacity, but will bring in a new production line that enhances its competitiveness in the future.”
Fischbach USA, which has been located in Elizabethtown since 1992, expects the investment to be completed by January 2012. The project will also ensure the company can meet production demand without shifting considerable volume to the company’s out-of-state facilities.
“Fischbach has grown dramatically over the past decade, and we are poised for continued and sustained growth over the next 10 years as well,” said Kirk Chadwick, Fischbach general manager. “We are excited about the partnership that we have formed with the state that allows us to continue to reinvest in our Elizabethtown facility to protect existing jobs and to allow us to expand our manufacturing base by moving into new markets.”
A state incentive package for Fischbach USA was preliminarily approved by the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority for up to $2 million through the Kentucky Reinvestment Act. The performance-based incentive is designed to encourage job retention efforts and investments in Kentucky facilities.
“Fischbach USA has been a vital part of Hardin County’s industrial base for two decades,” said Harry Berry, Hardin County Judge Executive. “Recent improvements made to the state’s economic incentive packages have made it possible for us to assist great corporate partners like Fischbach to maintain and grow their business in Hardin County. While it is always nice to attract a new company to our community, assisting our established community partners in growing and developing their business is what sustains our economic base and provides the most long-term employment growth and opportunities. Thank you Fischbach USA for continuing to invest in Hardin County.”
“Fischbach USA has been an excellent community partner since 1993 and we are pleased to hear of the expansion of their Elizabethtown facility with new technology and equipment to compete in their changing industry,” added Elizabethtown Mayor David Willmoth.
A detailed community profile for Elizabethtown (Hardin County) can be viewed at http://thinkkentucky.com/EDIS/cmnty/index.aspx?cw=003. Information on Kentucky’s economic development efforts and programs is available at www.ThinkKentucky.com.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
WL Plastics Has Open House
WL PLASTICS held an open house on Tuesday, September 21st . Attendees were given a tour of the facility and were able to see the product being made and gained information on the uses of the pipe produced there. Mr. Mike Dahl and Mr. Bob Kaminski both members of the Board of Directors for WL Plastics, praised the EHCIF for their efforts in working with their company the past few years in helping to locate their facility in Elizabethtown. In addition to Kentucky, WL Plastics operates plants in Wyoming, Utah, Texas and Alberta, Canada.
Elizabethtown Mayor David Willmoth, Hardin County Judge-Executive Harry Berry, Larry Hayes, Secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and members of the EHCIF Board of Directors were among those attending the open house to welcome WL Plastics to the community. Secretary Hayes presented a Kentucky State Flag to Mr. Dahl and stated that the Cabinet looked forward to partnering with WL in the future on any endeavor they might have.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Governor Beshear announces $151 million in BRAC regional growth projects
Governor Steve Beshear recently announced nearly $151 million in state approved transportaton and infrastructure projects for the Fort Knox region. The projects will support the communities in accommodating the growth expected from the Federal Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Commission's 2005 decision to realign to Ft. Knox.
Approved by the state are 11 infrastructure projects proposed through the Lincoln Trail Area Development District’s Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and the Kentuckiana Regional Planning and Development Agency (KIPDA). Also included in the budget are four transportation projects for the region that were prioritized in the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s six-year-road plan.
“With the phenomenal onset of the growth and transition brought about by BRAC at Fort Knox, this region of the Commonwealth is growing by leaps and bounds,” said Gov. Beshear. “Our military is one of our greatest partners and today we would like to show our commitment to seeing this region through its growing pains. The $151 million in transportation and infrastructure improvements will go a long way toward building roads, water and wastewater projects to help sustain the many workers, families and residents who are using these resources every day.”
For further details--see Gov. Beshear's press release at http://governor.ky.gov/pressrelease.htm?PostingGUID={A15D7F8A-5248-4BA4-AFF6-F8AFC2BF0EB4}
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Remington Arms Expansion
Remington Arms Company Inc., the nations's oldest continuously operating manufacturer of shotguns, rifles and ammunition, will invest $1.5 million to locate part of its firearms research and developmnet into its Elizabethtown Facility. The expansion will create 15 new jobs, 13 of which are considered high-tech and technical support jobs with an average annual salary of approximately $59,500, exclusive of benefits.
According to the company, in 2009, Remington’s operations in the Commonwealth provided 268 full-time jobs, generated nearly $10 million in annual compensation for Kentucky residents and more than $3.7 million in state and local tax revenues. The company’s KEDFA award of up to $200,000 will be used to pay for facility up-fitting and equipment costs as part of the company’s $1.5 million effort to co-locate part of Freedom Group’s R&D into the Elizabethtown location. The funds will enable the company to advance its firearms research for both military and sporting purposes. (www.remington.com)
“We thank the Commonwealth of Kentucky for its support of Remington and our continued expansion throughout the Commonwealth,” said John M. (Sean) Dwyer, chief technology officer for Remington. “Kentucky has always been extremely friendly to our products and has proven once again that it values our business presence. We look forward to continuing our development of innovative firearms that serve the needs of hunters, shooters, and our military personnel in Elizabethtown, Kentucky.”
“Elizabethtown is very proud to support the expansion of the Remington Arms R&D facility,” said Elizabethtown Mayor David Willmoth, Jr. “Remington has been an excellent corporate citizen with their firearms and ammunition research and development division since 1994. We are very excited that they have chosen to expand their Elizabethtown facility and add 15 new jobs to our economy.”
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
EIFTC Awards Scholarship
Karen Scott, a freshman at the Elizabethtown Community and Technical College is the 2010-2011 recipient of the Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation Training Consortium (EIFTC) Scholarship. The full-tuition scholarship is given annually to a student whose parent or legal guardian is employed by a consortium-member company. Karen's father is employeed at Dow Corning.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
iPay Technologies Being Sold to Jack Henry Associates, Inc.
One of Elizabethtown’s most successful employers and one of Greater Louisville’s fastest growing businesses has sold to a national computerized transaction processing services firm for $300 million.On Friday, publicly traded Jack Henry and Associates Inc. announced its plan to buy Elizabethtown-based iPay within the next month.
Hardin County native Dana Bowers and her husband, Mike, founded an electronic bill payment service for financial institutions in 1997 and named it Call Me Bill. It was a telephone bill payment service they sold in 1999, then bought back in 2001. Eight years ago, the then-eight-employee company became iPay Technologies.
Dana Bowers also started a business called Military Services Inc., a third-party bill-payment service for active duty military personnel, which sold about six years ago.
Since then, iPay has grown to become the leading provider of online bill payment solutions to more banks and credit unions than any of its competitors. Its 250 employees provide service to more than 3,600 clients who, in turn, offer online bill pay options to more than a million small business and consumer subscribers. Its client base represents half of the nation’s credit unions and about 40 percent of the nation’s community banks.
“If you pay your bills online, it’s probably a company like ours,” iPay co-founder Dana Bowers said during an August interview.
She could not be reached Friday or Saturday for comment on the sale.
Bowers in August credited her company’s fast growth to the Internet. With iPay’s services offered via the Web, she said there’s no need for a large “brick and mortar” operation.
iPay’s growth has been so impressive in the past eight years that Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson added Bowers’ company to an elite list of highly successful and fast-growing businesses dubbed the High-Impact Portfolio.
According to iPay’s anticipated buyer, iPay is the largest independent bill pay provider in the U.S.
With 11,800 customers nationwide, Jack Henry and Associates Inc. — traded on the Nasdaq as JKHY and supported by Symitar, ProfitStars and Jack Henry Banking — is the leading provider of computer systems and ATM/debit card/ACH transaction processing services for financial institutions.
In a news release Friday, Jack Henry CEO Jack Prim said the decision to acquire iPay was reached only after personal experience with the Elizabethtown firm.
“We have been longtime business partners with iPay and have used its platform to process the electronic bill payments,” Prim said.
The purchase, while expected to close in June, is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.
Both buyer and seller are represented by multiple legal and financial advisers.
It’s unclear if the sale of iPay will have an impact on the company’s employees or its ties to Elizabethtown.
Bob White can be reached at (270) 505-1750.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Project RENEW helps dislocated workers acquire new skill sets
(¬¬ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky.)—The Lincoln Trail Workforce Investment Board is offering a new employment assistance program, Project RENEW (Regional Economy Needing an Experienced Workforce). The program aims to match dislocated workers who are receiving unemployment insurance with full-time job openings while providing financial assistance to employers to help offset the cost of training new employees.
Project RENEW is part of the Recovery Act funded by the Workforce Investment Act (WIA). It is intended to preserve and create jobs as well as provide on-the-job training for dislocated workers receiving unemployment insurance. Vouchers of up to $5,000, or 50 percent of the trainee’s wages, are available through the program until June 30, 2011. Small businesses may also be eligible for reimbursement greater than 50 percent through June 30, 2010. Project RENEW services are available for a training period of up to six months, or 1,040 hours.
For more information on Project RENEW and other employment assistance options, employers should contact Jim Skees at the Lincoln Trail Area Development District (Phone: 270.769.2393) or visit www.ltcareercenter.org. The Lincoln Trail Workforce Investment Area includes Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, Larue, Marion, Meade, Nelson and Washington counties. Full-service Lincoln Trail Career Centers are located in Leitchfield, Elizabethtown, Bardstown and Lebanon.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
GLENDALE SITE RECEIVES CSX MEGASITE CERTIFICATION
ELIZABETHTOWN, KY. (April 12, 2010) A 1,551 acre site located in Glendale, Kentucky has been certified as a CSX Megasite by McCallum Sweeney Consulting, a leading site selection consulting firm based in Greenville, South Carolina.
The evaluation of the Glendale site is part of an initiative sponsored by CSX Transportation, Inc. and administered by McCallum Sweeney Consulting to identify and evaluate potential sites within the CSXT service area suitable for large-scale development projects.
Property size, access to CSX rail service, proximity to an interstate highway, labor availability, natural gas, wastewater and water infrastructures were part of the minimum criteria that was necessary in order to submit this property for consideration. Additionally, the site had to undergo a thorough and extensive environmental audit, and a geotechnical assessment. A wetlands delineation was completed and the site was certified free of endangered species. A complete archeological or historical significance assessment was also performed on the entire site. This entire certification process began in 2008.
“The distinction of being named a CSX Megasite by McCallum Sweeney Consulting is a tremendous benefit to the Glendale site in Elizabethtown,” said Governor Steve Beshear. “The site has previously been a finalist in many potential large-scale projects and this new honor will once again put a spotlight on this prime piece of shovel-ready property.”
Harry L. Berry, Hardin County Judge/Executive, stated, “Certification as ready for development by one of the Nation’s most prominent site selection consultants is certainly a huge boost to the marketability of our Glendale Industrial Site. Joining this elite list of industrial sites pre-qualified for immediate development by McCallum Sweeney Consulting (MSC) greatly improves our opportunities for attracting potential clients.” Berry further commented, “The prestige associated with being one of less than 15 sites receiving MSC’s Megasite Certification identifies our location as being relatively risk free for those projects that may be on a compressed time schedule for development and construction – it essentially validates that we are shovel ready.”
“The economy will turn, it always does. Those communities that have “ready sites” will have a distinct competitive advantage for companies who must build new capacity quickly while minimizing project start up risks.” said Ed McCallum, McCallum Sweeney Consulting.
Greg Jenkins, Chairman of the Board of the Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation, stated that having the title as a “CSX Transportation Certified Megasite” by McCallum Sweeney Consulting will greatly enhance the marketability of the site. “The effort it would take to complete all of the necessary assessments and audits to meet the requirements of the local, state and federal agencies involved is time and cost prohibitive to large companies looking for property in which to locate a project. With this work already completed, we are marketing this area as a shovel-ready site.” stated Jenkins.
“The sponsorship of the megasite certification program by CSX Transportation is one of significant importance in that the site is also recognized as being rail-served. The industrial foundation, along with our economic development partners, will market this site to clients who require large sites served by rail.” said Rick Games, President of the Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
WL Plastics Breaks Ground
January 13, 2010--WL Plastics Corporation, a manufacturer and marketer of smooth-wall polyethylene pressure pipe, broke ground today on their new facility to be located in the Hughes Industrial Park. With this new facility, WL will operate five manufacturing plants in North America, including operations in Wyoming, Utah, Texas and Alberta, Canada. Upon completion of the rail-served facility, WL will employ approximately 40 people in management and production jobs.
“I’m pleased WL Plastics Corporation has chosen the Commonwealth to call home, bringing new jobs and investment to Elizabethtown,” said Governor Steve Beshear. “This approximately $9 million investment will provide a significant economic boost to the community, creating dozens of employment opportunities for Kentucky families.”
Mayor David Willmoth said, “We welcome WL Plastics to Elizabethtown, their first plant east of the Mississippi--a company that produces high density polyethylene pressure pipe that is used in the oil, gas, mining and municipal water. We welcome you and hope you continue to grow and expand as time moves forward.”
R. Gregory Jenkins, Chairman of the Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation, stated that WL Plastics is a company that will add to the diversity of our industrial base. “We have enjoyed the relationships that have developed with WL Plastics executives. They will be a great corporate citizen and we look forward to a prosperous future for their business in Elizabethtown. We are also excited about bringing these new jobs to the community during these challenging economic times”.
“We are excited about our new operation in Elizabethtown for a number of reasons”, said Mike Dahl, Director of WL Plastics. “The can-do attitude of the local community is a great fit for our company culture, and the location is excellent for servicing our customers and markets. This should be a great plant for WL and E-town.”
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Governor Beshear Announces Expansion of Akebono Corporation Headquarters in Elizabethtown
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 11, 2010) – Gov. Steve Beshear today announced new, professional jobs are coming to Elizabethtown with the expansion of Akebono Brake Corporation’s headquarters. Joined by Cabinet for Economic Development Secretary Larry Hayes, community leaders and company officials, Akebono Corporation said it would add 70 new jobs to its administrative offices as a result of discussions between Gov. Beshear and Akebono Corporation officials in Japan during the governor’s October 2009 economic development trip.
The world’s leading manufacturer of automotive brakes and brake components, Akebono recently acquired Robert Bosch LLC’s North American Foundation Brake Division. As a result, Akebono will invest $800,000 in its Elizabethtown headquarters operation to accommodate its growth. An additional 12,276 square feet of office space will be completed at its facility, located on Ring Road, to house the new staff necessary due to doubling the size of the company.
“Kentucky is proud to have an outstanding, world-class company like Akebono Corporation call Kentucky home for so many years,” said Gov. Beshear. “I was very encouraged by discussions with company officials in Japan last year about future growth opportunities at the Elizabethtown headquarters. Armed with a new economic incentive toolbox, we were able to secure this expansion for Kentucky, bringing new jobs to Kentucky families.”
Gov. Beshear and Secretary Hayes met with Akebono officials in Japan last fall to discuss its Kentucky presence, specifically future opportunities for its Elizabethtown headquarters. Kentucky’s new economic development incentive programs, passed during the 2009 special legislative session, were instrumental in securing Akebono’s expansion in the Commonwealth.
“Akebono has long had a presence in Kentucky and appreciates the advantages that Kentucky offers,” said Carl Lay, vice president of administration for North American operations. “This historic moment in our history more than doubles the size of Akebono, bringing more business, more jobs, and more opportunities to the Commonwealth and to the great workforce we have here at Akebono Brake.”
The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority preliminarily approved Akebono Corporation for tax benefits up to $800,000 under Kentucky’s new incentive program, the Kentucky Business Investment Program. The incentive can be earned over a 10-year period through corporate income tax credits and wage assessments. The maximum annual approved amount to be earned by Akebono is $80,000.
Akebono Corporation has historically operated all of its North American manufacturing facilities in Kentucky. Opening its first Kentucky facility in Elizabethtown in 1987, the company has since grown to become one of the largest manufacturing operations in Hardin County, employing 1,500 people in the area. The company relocated its North American headquarters to the Commonwealth in 2006.
“Since coming to Kentucky in 1987, Akebono has been a cornerstone of the Elizabethtown business community,” said R. Gregory Jenkins, chairman of the Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation. “They have achieved outstanding growth over the intervening 23 years, and with the Bosch acquisition, we welcome the expansion of the North American headquarters operation. Today, we take another step in fulfilling our mission to make Elizabethtown not just a great place to manufacture product but to manage operations with a nationwide scope.”
“Akebono has grown to become the leader of the automotive brake industry in the U.S. since locating to Elizabethtown in 1987,” said Elizabethtown Mayor Dave Willmoth. “We welcome the addition of new employees to the North American headquarters.”
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Dana Plant Sale
December 18, 2009--Dana Holding Corporation announced earlier this week that it has signed an agreement to sell its Global Structural Products business to Metalsa, S.A. de C.V., headquarted in Monterrey, Mexico. This sale will include the Elizabethtown Dana Plant. The Elizabethtown Plant Manager, Harland Sarbacker stated that he is excited about the new owners and that things will progress here in Elizabethtown. As part of this acquisition, Metalsa will also take control of the Dana frame operations in Owensboro and Hopkinsville. Please view the following links for additional information.
http://dana.mediaroom.com/index.php/press_releases/2209?printable
http://www.metalsa.com/files/info.pdf
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Elizabethtown Sports Park in Developmental Stage.
December 7, 2009--Elizabethtown Sports Park to be built adjacent to the Hughes Industrial Park. A revised layout for the new Elizabethtown Sports Park was unveiled to the public last week. The park will span over 150 acres and will feature baseball, softball, soccer and football complexes which will include concessions, restrooms, covered tables, shaded tent areas, pavillion-type structures, umpire locker rooms and covered vendor space. In addition, the park will feature walking/biking paths, playground/picnic area, Wi-Fi, public address system, etc. For more information on this park, please visit the website for the Elizabethtown Tourisim and Convention Bureau at: www.touretown.com
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
WL Plastics To Open New Plant in Elizabethtown
ELIZABETHTOWN, KY. (December 2, 2009) - WL Plastics Corporation has announced plans to build a pipe manufacturing facility in Elizabethtown, KY. WL, a manufacturer and marketer of smooth-wall polyethylene (PE) pressure pipe, purchased land in the Hughes Industrial Park in May of 2008. They have recently hired Jenkins-Essex Construction of Elizabethtown to build the facility scheduled to open in the Spring of 2010.
With the new facility, WL will operate five manufacturing plants in North America, including operations in Wyoming, Utah, Texas and Alberta, Canada. The PE pipe products are sold into markets such as oil and gas collection, water, sewer, irrigation, landfill, mining and industrial applications.
Upon completion of the rail-served, 17 acre facility, WL will employ approximately 40 people in management and production jobs. The company plans to start hiring production and maintenance personnel by March of 2010.
A ground-breaking ceremony is planned for a later date.
The City of Elizabethtown and The Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation are proud to welcome W.L. Plastics to our community
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Freedom Metals Received Fast Fifty Award
November 19, 2009--Business First of Louisville recently recognized Freedom Metals for their rapid growth estimated between 75 to 90 percent for 2009. This is the sixth consecutive year that Freedom Metals has received the "Fast Fifty" Award as one of the fastest growing companies in the state. The company was also recognized this year in INC. Magazine 5000 as one of the fastest growing companies in the county. This is the third consecutive year that they have been recognized by INC. Freedom Metals is a family-run business serving the Kentucky & Indiana community since 1983. They specialize in processing all grades of both ferrous and non-ferrous scrap materials. They have two locations-Elizabehtown and Louisville and employe 85 people.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Akebono Expands With Purchase of Bosch Foundation Brake Business
On September 24, 2009, Akebono Brake Industry Co., LTD of Japan announced that agreement was reached on the asset purchase for the foundation brake assets of Robert Bosch, LLC.
A new company named "ABMA, LLC" has been established for the purpose of the purchase of asset from Bosch and will be a fully owned subsidiary of Akebono Brake Corporation North America. The new assets purchased include manufacturing operations in Clarksville, TN and Columbia, SC. The transaction is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2009.
Akebono Brake Corporation's North American Headquarters is located in Elizabethtown, KY. Other locations include a Research and Development facility in Farmington Hills, MI with manufacturing operations in Glasgow, KY and Elizabethtown, KY. Total employment for Akebono North America's current operations is approximately 1500 before the addition of the two new plants in Clarksville, TN and Columbia, SC.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation Training Consortium Awards Scholarship
August 2009--Ashli Poat,the daughter of Steve and Pam Poat of Leitchfield, a sophomore radiography student at the Elizabethtown Community and Technical College is the recipient of the 2009-2010 Elizabethtown Industrial Foundation Training Consortium Scholarship. The full-tuition scholarship is given annually to a student whose parent or legal guardin is employed by a consortium member company. Ashli's fater, Steve, is employed by Dow Corning.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Congratulations Dana Bowers
August 2009--Dana Bowers, the co-founder and managing partner of iPay Technologies was recently announced as the winner of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year® award. Each year Ernst & Young LLP recognizes outstanding entrepreneurs who have proven themselves through innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their businesses and communities. Dana will compete on the national level in October. Additional information is available at www.ipaytechnologies.com.
|
< Top of Page >
|
|
Incentives for a New Kentucky (INK)
Incentives for a New Kentucky (INK)
On June 26, 2009, Governor Steve Beshear signed into law House Bill 3, known as Incentives for a New Kentucky (INK) streamlining and modernizing Kentucky’s business incentive programs. Effective immediately this legislation does the following:
Provides a program for existing manufacturers who need to make a significant capital investment in Kentucky facilities in order to remain competitive;
Consolidates KIDA, KREDA, KJDA & KEOZ into a single, more flexible tax incentive program for new and expanding businesses;
Provides a sales and use tax refund for companies that are heavy users of computer and telecommunications equipment; and,
Expands KEIA to allow sales tax refunds for the purchase of electronic processing systems costing $50,000 or more.
Other new programs are also included in this landmark legislation that will further encourage small business, tourism and other forms of development across the state. For additional information on these incentives, contact the Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation at 270-737-0300 or email: eif@kvnet.org
|
< Top of Page >
|
Copyright © 1996-2012 by the
Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation, Inc.
- Elizabethtown, Kentucky -
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
|
|
 |
|
