Huntington County Economic Development News RSS feed

Duke Energy Contributes to Huntington County Economic Development

2012-05-18T00:00:00-04:00

Douglas Esamann, President of Duke Energy Indiana, and Laura Sheets, District Manager for Duke Energy's Northern Indiana Region presented the Huntington County Economic Development with a charitable contribution of $3,000.00.

HCUED's Markle Industrial Park Receives Shovel Ready Designation

2012-05-16T00:00:00-04:00

The Markle Industrial Park, owned by Huntington County United Economic Development Corporation, has received approval by the State of Indiana as a Shovel Ready Industrial Property. The designation for the park, located at I-69 Exit 86 in Huntington County, Indiana, allows for expedited permitting by the State of Indiana.

March Unemployment Picture Improves

2012-04-20T00:00:00-04:00

The unemployment picture in Huntington County improved again in March of 2012. According to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, the unemployment rate for Huntington County stood at 8.5% in March.

Helena Chemical Opens Huntington Terminal

2012-04-17T00:00:00-04:00

Helena Chemical, a division of Tokyo-based Marubeni Corporation, officially opened their new $21.5 million Huntington Terminal on April 17, 2012.

Huntington County Industries Honored

2012-04-16T00:00:00-04:00

Huntington County Economic Development honors clients who invested in projects in Huntington County in 2011.

City Administration Displays Huntington-made Products

2012-04-05T00:00:00-04:00

City Administration is making a display of items made in Huntington.

Unemployment Rate Drops in February

2012-03-30T00:00:00-04:00

According to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, the unemployment rate in Huntington County for February of 2012 stood at 8.8%, dropping from 9.1% in January.

Council Passes CEDIT Plan

2012-03-26T00:00:00-04:00

City Council approved the use of funds in the city's Economic Development Income Tax (CEDIT) for the City's Capital Improvement Plan.

Collaboration and Team Work Keys to County's Growth

2012-03-26T00:00:00-04:00

Leaders of Huntington County are enthusiastic about county's economic growth with the coming of new companies as well th expansion of existing companies and the retention of jobs.

Huntington Ranked as 21st Best Micropolitan Community in 2011

2012-03-06T00:00:00-05:00

Site Selection Magazine (http://www.siteselection.com) released their rankings of the top 100 micropolitan markets for 2011. Ranks Huntington as tied for the 21st most best micropolitan markets in the U.S. for 2011.

Unemployment Rate for Huntington County at 8.7% in December

2012-01-24T00:00:00-05:00

The unemployment rate for Huntington County dropped to 8.7% in December of 2011 according to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.

UT Electronic Controls Division to Invest in Huntington

2012-01-12T00:00:00-05:00

United Technologies Electronic Controls Division to invest over $2.5 million in new manufacturing equipment and research and development equipment at their facility in Huntington, Indiana.

M&S Industrial Metal Fabricators to Invest in Huntington

2012-01-12T00:00:00-05:00

M&S Industrial Metal Fabricators to invest $500,000 in new equipment to retain 74 incumbent workers.

2011 Encouraging Year for Industrial Growth

2012-01-09T00:00:00-05:00

2011 was an encouraging year for industrial growth and new capital investments in Huntington County. 13 industrial projects were announced during 2011 representing over $32 million in new capital investments impacting several hundred existing and new jobs.

Huntington Sheet Metal, Inc., to Invest - Creates and Retains Jobs

2011-12-14T00:00:00-05:00

Huntington Sheet Metal, Inc., to invest in new equipment creating and retaining jobs at their facility in Huntington, Indiana.

Unemployment Rate at 8.9% for October

2011-11-23T00:00:00-05:00

The Indiana Department of Workforce Development reports the October 2011 Unemployment Rate for Huntington County is at 8.9%.

Leaders Formally Commit to Culture of Collaboration at Regional Partnership Annual Meeting

2011-11-22T00:00:00-05:00

Lime City Committee Holds Year-End Meeting

2011-11-21T00:00:00-05:00

HCEDC Executive Director's Reflections About Denver Trip

2011-10-28T00:00:00-04:00

HCUED Executive Director's Column Featured in Fort Wayne Business Weekly.

September Unemployment Picture Improves in Huntington County

2011-10-24T00:00:00-04:00

The Indiana Department of Workforce Development has released the Unemployment Report for September of 2011. Huntington County's rate improved to 8.7% compared to 9.1% during the previous month.

Gerdau to Invest $17.6 million at Huntington Plant

2011-10-12T00:00:00-04:00

Gerdau Steel, http://www.gerdau.com broke ground today on an expansion of their Huntington facility.

Helena Chemical Hosts Lime City Committee

2011-10-03T00:00:00-04:00

Helena Chemical, a division of Tokyo based Marubeni Corporation, hosted the Lime City Committee for their September meeting.

Jobless Rate in Huntington County Drops Slightly in August of 2011

2011-09-19T00:00:00-04:00

According to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development the unemployment rate in Huntington County for August of 2011 dropped slightly from the July report.

Huntington Aluminum Celebrates with Ribbon Cutting

2011-09-08T00:00:00-04:00

Huntington Aluminum celebrates the opening of their aluminum manufacturing facility with a ribbon cutting event on Thursday, September 8, 2011.

Northeast Indiana Foreign Trade Zone Extended

2011-08-30T00:00:00-04:00

TWO-EE's Winery Breaks Ground in Huntington County

2011-08-09T00:00:00-04:00

TWO-EE's Winery breaks ground on a new winery, vineyard, and tasting room and production facility. TWO-EE's Chairman, Dave Harris was joined by his team, Eric Harris, Proprietor, Winemaker and General Manager and Emily Hart, Proprietor, Director of Marketing and Tasting Room Manager for the celebration.

Continental Structural Plastics Hosts Lime City Development Committee Meeting

2011-07-29T00:00:00-04:00

Huntington County Unemployment Report for June 2011

2011-07-22T00:00:00-04:00

The June 2011 unemployment report was released today by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.

Huntington Aluminum Weighing Expansion

2011-07-19T00:00:00-04:00

OSV Chief to Lead Catholic Press Association

2011-06-24T00:00:00-04:00

Erlandson to be introduced to new post.

HCUED Participates in Annual JASI Gala

2011-06-24T00:00:00-04:00

Huntington-- Jessica Howell, newly hired Economic Development Associate for Huntington County Economic Development attended the Japan-American Society of Indiana's Annual Gala on Friday Evening, June 17th.

Unemployment Rate Plateaus in May

2011-06-20T00:00:00-04:00

Huntington County unemployment rate plateaus for the month of May.

Huntington Noted as One of Two Indiana Locales to Watch in 2011

2011-06-06T00:00:00-04:00

Area Development Magazine has noted Huntington as one of two Indiana locales to watch in 2011.

Indiana Awarded Gold Shovel Award

2011-06-06T00:00:00-04:00

The State of Indiana has been awarded its first-ever Gold Shovel award from Area Development Magazine.

Jessica Howell Joins Staff

2011-06-05T00:00:00-04:00

The Huntington County United Economic Development Corporation welcomes Jessica Howell as their Economic Development Associate.

Unemployment Rate Falls in April

2011-05-23T00:00:00-04:00

According to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development the unemployment rate in Huntington County fell for the third consecutive month. The April rate, covering the reporting period from March 11-April 10, 2011, stands at 8.4% in Huntington County, down from 11.4% in January of 2011.

Huntington Aluminum to Create 43 Jobs by 2013

2011-04-29T00:00:00-04:00

Huntington Aluminum, a startup aluminum processor announced it will establish its intitial operation in Huntington's Riverfork Industrial Park, creating approximately 43 new jobs by the end of 2013.

March 2011 Unemployment Picture Improves

2011-04-19T00:00:00-04:00

According to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, the unemployment rate for Huntington County improved slightly during March of 2011. The rate stood at 9.3%, down from 9.9% in February and 11.4% in January.

First Farmers Bank

2011-04-15T00:00:00-04:00

First Farmers Bank and Trust was featured in The TAB after opening their new Huntington Branch at 244 Hauenstein Road.

Perfection Wheel Featured in the Ft. Wayne Business Weekly

2011-04-15T00:00:00-04:00

Startup company Perfection Wheel LLC. was featured in a recent issue of the Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly.

Unemployment Numbers Improve

2011-03-25T00:00:00-04:00

The Indiana Department of Workforce Development released the February unemployment numbers for the county and state. The Huntington County unemployment improved to 9.9 from 11.5 percent for the month of January. Huntington is slightly over the state rate of 9.4 percent. The state unemployment number is down a tick from 9.5 while the United States rate dropped from 9.8 percent to 9.5 percent for the month of February

WOWO Interview with Helena Chemical

2011-03-22T00:00:00-04:00

Rob Winters of WOWO News Talk 1190 AM Radio interviews Jodi Heath, the new Fertilizer Branch Manager of Helena Chemical, and Mark Wickersham, the Executive Director of Huntington County Economic Development.

Businesses Recognized for their Dedication

2011-03-21T00:00:00-04:00

Investment in community helps make 2010 a banner year

January Unemployment Numbers

2011-03-21T00:00:00-04:00

Huntington County unemployment numbers for January 2011.

Annual Business Appreciation Luncheon Held

2011-03-16T00:00:00-04:00

City and county business leaders gathered today at the LaFontaine Center to be recognized for their investments in the community. Huntington County Economic Development honored five businesses that made expansions or were altogether new to the county over the last year. UT Electonic Controls, Helena Chemical, Perfection Wheel, Continental Structural Plastics, and FMI Corporation were all given plaques recognizing each for their achievements. As representatives from each organization spoke, it was clear to see why they chose Huntington County. Roger McClellan, owner of Perfection Wheel, said "The support we've had from day one has been phenomenal." Craig Matheson of FMI reiterated that point saying, "It's been real easy to do business here in Huntington County." Jodi Heath, fertilizer branch manager for Helena Chemical, accepted the award and spoke saying, "The Future is bright for Helena Chemical and Huntington County and we are proud to be a part of it."

UT Electronic Controls was a retention project that kept 648 jobs in the community and had an investment of $1.6 million. Helena Chemical is making a $21 million investment and expects to have 20 new jobs by 2013. Perfection Wheel is a start up company that invested $1.7 million and will employ 53 people once at full capacity. Continental Structural Plastics has committed to creating 350 new jobs along with their $9.1 million investment. FMI Corporation made a $740,000 dollar investment and carried 21 net new jobs also. Totaling 444 net new jobs and 648 retained jobs along with nearly $34 million in investment, these five companies are helping to shape the future of Huntington County.

Reception Honors City and County

2011-03-14T00:00:00-04:00

Huntington County was recently named to Site Selections Top 100 list for micropolitan economic development nationally. A reception was held in the rotunda of the courthouse to honor city and county employees and elected officials for their role in this achievement. Plaques highlighting Huntington and listing the communities honored were presented to Mayor Updike, the city representative, and the county representative, Commissioner Tom Wall. Along with the plaques, the representatives were given a decorative logging chain representing the bonds of city and county employees, departments, and officials all connected and working together to help our community grow, prosper, and succeed. If there is even one weak link a chain can easily be broken, which is why it is remarkable that so many people and departments have been able to work together to keep the chain strong. Huntington County Economic Development Director, Mark Wickersham spoke, saying, "It is a community effort to not only attract and retain businesses, but to make Huntington a better place to live and work."

Huntington Ranked as the 25th Best

2011-03-02T00:00:00-05:00

Site Selection.Com recognizes Huntington as the 25th top performing micropolitan economic development effort in the U.S. for 2010.

Perfection Wheel Opens Doors

2011-02-25T00:00:00-05:00

Perfection Wheel announced yesterday their grand opening here in Huntington. After the start up made a 1.7 million dollar investment in December, the company is currently up and running refurbishing and fixing aluminum wheels. Owner Roger McClellan along with his family cut the ribbon to ceremoniously open the business. Federal government representatives and local officials were on hand to welcome the company and celebrate the opening.

City Council Votes to Waive Tax Abatement Filing Fees for 2011

2011-02-23T00:00:00-05:00

The Common Council for the City of Huntington voted 7-0 yesterday (2/22/11) to waive the filing fees in 2011 associated with tax abatement requests.

Wickersham Contributes to Panel

2011-02-18T00:00:00-05:00

The Huntington County Leadership Academy held its annual economic development panel discussion at Huntington Universities Habecker Dining Commons. The pannel included John Hacker, president of the Huntington County Council, Ed Farris of the Huntington County Purdue Extension, Mark Wickersham, Executive Director of Huntington County Economic Development, Chris Hoke of the Huntington County Community School Corporation, and Kevin Willour of Beacon Credit Union.

The first question that was posed to the panel was, "How has the current economic conditions affected your sector and how are you working to fix it?" Ed Farris responded saying, "Overall it was a good year for farmers in Huntington. Grain farmers enjoyed healthy prices and average yields." John Hacker responded, "The county is growing and jobs are coming in but the reassessment values on houses have taken a plunge and our budgets are taking a hit because of it." The city and county both forecast their budgets based on the previous year's tax assessments. Wickersham had a positive outlook for the future of Huntington saying, "When I came to work here three years ago we had 1.7 million square feet of industrial space empty and since then we have filled 1.35 million square feet of that space." Wickersham also talked about how proud he is of Huntington for being such a friendly community. "We would have never won Helena Chemical if it wasn't for everyone in the county being friendly and offering excellent customer service." He said, "It was because of the service friendly attitude that they decided to locate here and bring 20 new jobs."

Looking back at 2010 financially, it was an excellent year for the local banking industry. With reduced lending rates, banks have been able to to borrow money at a lower rate, which leads to higher profits. "The cost of funds are possibly at the lowest rate in history," Willour said. Overall, community and business leaders believe that 2010 was a productive year and that the county is slowly climbing out of a recession.

Don't Let Census Numbers Define Us

2011-02-18T00:00:00-05:00

Population Shows Decline

2011-02-17T00:00:00-05:00

The latest 2010 U.S. Census data shows that Huntington County has a population of 37,124, down from the 2000 population of 38,075. The loss of these 951 residents since 2000 is a 2.6 percent decrease for the county. The largest population loss came from the census tract that covers Wayne, Jefferson, and Salamonie townships. Areas of increase around the county included Union, Rock Creek, and Jackson Township along with the only incorporated community to gain population, Roanoke. Huntington County Economic Development Executive Director Mark Wickersham pointed out that the county's growth is in the north and eastern portions -- which are demographically wealthier than other areas -- whereas the southwest, south central parts and Huntington have experienced population declines. "Areas that seem to see suburban growth are still showing growth patterns," Wickersham says. "That trend has been going on for 30 years."

Duke Energy Gives Grant

2011-02-01T00:00:00-05:00

Thursday January 27, 2011

Duke Energy gave a $20,500 grant to Huntington County Economic Development for identification of a new industrial park. To date, seven buildings and over 1.3 million square feet of industrial space has already been backfilled which creates a need for new sites. "Additional industrial sites are needed in the Huntington area," said Laura Sheets, area manager for Duke Energy Indiana's north area. This grant from Duke Energy will pay for a land survey, Phase-One environmental survey, wetlands delineation, and a geotechnical study of the site in hopes of achieving a "site ready" certification. "Site ready" certification will expedite the permitting process for business development.

The grant is made possible through Duke Energy's Community Growth Partnership Grant Program and s aimed at enerating new jobs and capital investment in Indiana. Since 2008, 27 grant recipients-all local or regional economic development organizations- have recieved more than $328,000 toward economic development projects.

Wayne Metals Honored

2011-01-28T00:00:00-05:00

January 27, 2011

Wayne Metals was honored by Caterpillar today with the Bronze Supplier Award. They achieved a quality rating in which only 500 parts per million were rejected and is only one of twenty one suppliers to meet this standard. Greg Myers, President and co-owner of Wayne Metals has been working towards this goal for nearly four years.

Huntington County Unemployment Rate Improves in December

2011-01-26T00:00:00-05:00

The Huntington County unemployment rate improved in December of 2010. The rate was 9.6% compared to 11.0% the previous month.

Future Manufacturing, Inc. Expanding

2011-01-19T00:00:00-05:00

Future Manufacturing, Inc., or FMI Corporation, expanding. Hiring 10 people.

Pro Mach Acquires Shuttleworth

2011-01-07T00:00:00-05:00

Pro Mach, Inc. of Cincinnati, Ohio (http://www.promachinc.com) has announced the acquisition of Shuttleworth, Inc., of Huntington.

“It is a pleasure to offer congratulations to both Companies and I look forward to helping Pro Mach, Inc., grow in Huntington,” said Mark Wickersham, Executive Director of Huntington County Economic Development. “Carol Shuttleworth is among the strongest advocates for the Huntington Community. Her professional and personal commitment to Huntington is legendary. I don’t know the most appropriate words to express our gratitude for everything she’s done. I believe that among Carol’s basic philosophies is a commitment to ‘win-win’ situations and to the pursuit of excellence. I have no doubt that she has created a ‘win-win’ for as many people as she can in this situation and excellence is not an uncommon word with Pro Mach,” Wickersham added. “I’m excited for Carol and her team and look forward to welcoming new friends from Pro Mach, Inc.,” he concluded.

Read the Journal Gazette article at http://journalgazette.net/article/20110107/BIZ/301079923

Economic Development Projects Have Economy Looking Stronger

2011-01-05T00:00:00-05:00

The local economy has seen significant improvement for not only 2010, but 2008 and 2009 as well. During the year just ended, Huntington County saw five new industrial development projects, with a capital investment of over $32 million in Huntington County, notes Mark Wickersham, executive director of Huntington County Economic Development - the agency charged with attracting new economic development to the county.

That brings the total number of new economic projects over the past three years to 24, projects that will add more than 1,000 new jobs once they're all fully up and running.

"Obviously, we're not in a full recovery, but things are definitely improving," Wickersham says.

Those 24 new economic development projects include seven projects that have used vacant industrial buildings, totaling 1,315,000 square feet of "backfilled" industrial space.

Wickersham believes that the county has more of an advantage in economic development than other areas because of the unique relationship government and private sector leaders have. "We genuinely have a team approach to economic development in Huntington County," Wickersham says. "Companies don't need to come to Huntington to argue over whether their project is a good idea or not ... our county is really good at seeing what it can do to help. It's unique to Indiana that economic development starts from the perspective of the business, not bureaucracy or government."

And from the government perspective, Huntington County Commissioner President Tom Wall agrees. "I'm seeing so much teamwork coming together," Wall says. "We see what we can do as a community to help (businesses) come to Huntington, Indiana." Wall cites meetings local officials had with Helena Chemical last year as evidence for government support of business. "I'm hoping to see great things next year, and hope we get some of these empty buildings filled," he says.

In addition to the government-corporate relationship, Wickersham says the county has other infrastructure that has successfully contributed to economic development. Those include U.S-24 (the Hoosier Heartland Industrial Corridor), I-69, the Norfolk Southern rail line and even the Huntington Municipal Airport.

"The airport was absolutely critical in getting Onward Manufacturing to Huntington County," Wickersham says.

State and local incentives have also helped to entice businesses to the county. Most of these have come through tax abatements, which boil down to the local government phasing in taxes on new corporations instead of hitting those businesses with taxes all at once. Wickersham says incentives are not an expense to the taxpayers, but instead an "incremental growth of new revenue." The county hasn't forgotten about what it already has, however. "Our number one assets are the companies and people we already have," says Wickersham.

In addition to new industry in the City of Huntington, HCUED has made progress over the past year across the county. In Markle, Wickersham says the town has worked to develop its industrial park into a "shovel-ready site," meaning that lots are ready for development, and the town is looking at additional infrastructure for the park. "They've taken three months off the development process," says Wickersham.

In Warren, HCUED is working to continue potential development at the Brickley Industrial Park, which includes sites at exits 73 and 78 along I-69.

In Roanoke, Wickersham says it is important to continue to lobby for the A-7 Corridor and to continue to look for projects like the Jackson Square Apartments.

For Andrews, Wickersham says he has shown the former Dana Corp. building several times, and said companies have recently expressed interest in developing the facility.

"We want companies to be able to say that coming to Huntington County was the best business decision they could make," Wickersham says. The overall improvement comes despite an increase in the Huntington County unemployment rate from October to November.

The county's unemployment rate rose to 11.0 percent last November, up from a 12-month low of 9.5 percent in October. In October 2009, the local jobless rate was 12.9 percent. The increase in joblessness can't be attributed to a loss of jobs in Huntington County, Wickersham says. Instead, the jump may be due to a temporary shut-down of the General Motors Plant in Allen County. In early November, GM temporarily shut down that facility, affecting more than 230 GM employees that live in Huntington County. Because unemployment rates are by location of residency and not by location of employment, the Huntington County jobless rate was affected.

HCUED's Kevin Kyle Featured by Herald Press

2010-12-15T00:00:00-05:00

Huntington County Economic Development's Kevin Kyle was featured in the Herald Press. Kevin Kyle started working in the economic development office as a Huntington University intern in December of 2009 and has been with them since. Kevin's various tasks include working to plan and coordinate economic development events as well as managing the corporation website, media outlets, and office information systems.

Helena Breaks Ground On New Facility

2010-12-14T00:00:00-05:00

Tuesday December 14, 2010

Helena Chemical broke ground today for a new regional blending, distribution and storage facility on approximately 30 acres in Huntington's Park 24 Industrial Park. The Company anticipates investing over $21 million in the plant and is expected to employ up to 20 people by 2013. The company plans to open the facility in spring of 2012. Helena Chemical was founded in 1957 and is a Tennessee-based agriculture distribution company that employs 3,500 people nationwide and a division of Tokyo based Marubeni Corporation.

New Economic Development Board Members, President

2010-12-14T00:00:00-05:00

Tuesday December 14, 2010

The Huntington County Economic Development Board met this morning and elected a new president, Greg Smitley, (pictured top right with outgoing president Jeff Souder) and vice president, Perry Collins. Jay Buzzard continues as Treasurer as does Kay Schwob as Secretary. Darlene Stanley was recognized for her service to the Board as she retires from the Board and John Easterday (bottom right) was also recognized as the retiring President of the Lime City Committee. The new 2011 Lime CIty President will be Jason Fields and Dale Hawkins will service as Vice President. In addition, Mike Pogorelc of Bendix joins the Huntington County Economic Development Board of Directors as a new Member at Large.

Start-Up Announces Plans

2010-12-06T00:00:00-05:00

Perfection Wheel announced today for a crowd of elected officials and media that they are starting a new company here in Huntington. Over the next two years they intend to invest $1.7 million and employ 53 people. The leadership team has already started preparing the building and anticipates production beginning in early January. Huntington County Economic Development Executive Director Mark Wickersham officially welcomed the company while Mayor Steve Updike, Commissioner Tom Wall, and City Councilman Erv Ebersole each spoke. CEO and majority owner of Perfection Wheel, Roger McClellan also spoke about the company before giving a tour of the building located at 255 North Briant Street. Perfection Wheel is an automotive parts company, which is a core industry of Huntington County.

Lime City Elects New President

2010-12-03T00:00:00-05:00

The Lime City Economic Development Committee held their final meeting of the year today at the Huntington University Dining Commons with John Easterday presiding. City Councilman and Lime City Member Jason Fields was elected the new President of Lime City Committee for 2011 with Dale Hawkins to serve as Vice President. The meeting also included a project update and year end report by the Executive Director of Huntington County Economic Development Mark Wickersham as well as updates by Mayor Steve Updike, Director of the Visitors Center Tina Bobilya, County Commissioner Tom Wall, City Councilman Erv Ebersole, and HCUED associate Kevin Kyle. The Lime City meeting was capped off with building tours of the former GOTEC and Stride-Rite buildings in the Riverfork Industrial Park.

Employment Picture Continues to Improve

2010-11-24T00:00:00-05:00

The October 2010 unemployment rate for Huntington County stood at 9.5% down from 12.6% one year ago. This is the 5th consecutive month of improvement in Huntington County. The October 2010 rate at 9.5% is the first time since December of 2008 that the county's rate has dropped below double-figures.

According to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, there were 312 more Huntington County Residents employed in October as compared to September and 533 more jobs compared with one year ago.

"The improving employment picture is very encouraging, especially as we enter the holiday season," said Mark Wickersham, Executive Director of Huntington County Economic Development. He added, "We're still a long way from a full recovery and bull market but the situation is definately stabilizing."

Director Honored as Keynote Speaker

2010-11-22T00:00:00-05:00

Huntington County Economic Development Executive Director, Mark Wickersham was the keynote speaker at several recent community functions. Mark spoke to local Kiwanis about job creation in Huntington County, the business incentives for companies, and the available industrial parks, sites, and properties in Huntington County while highlighting the certified industrial site near Interstate 69. The Huntington Indiana Rotary Club invited Mark to speak about Northeast Indiana Economic Development and the impact Huntington County Economic Development has had on hte city of Huntington as well as the county. The new jobs coming to Northeast Indiana and in particular Huntington Indiana were a hot topic of discussion. He pointed out how Huntington County specializes in Food Processing, the Metal Fabrication Industry, Logistics, and Automotive Supply Chain. Huntington County Economic Development is a not for profit 501(c)3.

Advanced Engineering Opens New Expansion

2010-11-02T00:00:00-04:00

Advanced Engineering held a ribbon cutting and ceremony for their second facility in Huntington County. The new site will produce orthopedic surgical kits as well as other injection molded products. Senior partner Phil Layman gave a tour of the new facility for the dozens of elected officials and onlookers. Advanced Engineering placed a $1.2 million capital investment into the project which converted an old airplane hanger into their manufacturing space and clean room assembly. Huntington County Economic Development Executive Director Mark Wickersham said he was excited to see several months of planning and working with the county come to this end result as it will create jobs and put more money into Huntington County. "A lot of people worked hard on a number of municipal levels," Wickersham said. "...It takes a team to make a project like this succeed." The new 23,500-square-foot site is expected to create 15 new jobs for the county.

Huntington County Unemployment Picture Improving

2010-10-26T00:00:00-04:00

September statistics show Huntington County unemployment rates improving for the fourth consecutive month. The number of unemployed dipped below 2,000 for the first time in over a year. Hiring by many local manufacturers fueled the improvements. At 10.1 percent Huntington is slightly over the state average.

Huntington's CSP Project Featured as a Regional Leader in Economic Development

2010-10-26T00:00:00-04:00

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20101024/LOCAL/310249887/1002/LOCAL

The attached link is to an article about the regional economy which appeared on the front page of the Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette on 10/24/10. Huntington's Continental Structural Plastics (CSP) Project is referenced as one of three regional economic developmentprojects (one in Warsaw, one in Ft. Wayne and Huntington's CSP) with the combination of companies promising more than 800 new jobs in northeast Indiana. We know that CSP committed to creating 350 new local jobs. The Huntington projectaccounts for 44% of the new job commitments in northeast Indiana so far in 2010, as reported by the Journal-Gazette.

Huntington Hosts Chinese Delegation

2010-10-08T00:00:00-04:00

Chinese business leaders from the Guongdong Province, visited Huntington County before stopping for a dinner hosted by Parkview Hospital. The group was shown the agricultural, business, and industrial districts around the county and given a tour of the hospital facilities. County economic development executive director Mark WIckersham coordinated the delagations visit. Mayor Steve Updike and county commisioner Tom Wall also traveled with the group during their entire trip and were on hand to answer the many questions they had regarding taxes, government, and business. The Chinese delegation was accompanied by Xiaoxiao Fu, an interpreter and doctoral candidate from Purdue University.

First Farmers Break Ground

2010-10-07T00:00:00-04:00

Members of First Farmers Bank and Trust broke ground for a new bank on Hauenstein Road along with Huntington County Economic Development's executive director Mark Wickersham. Also on hand to turn ground were county council member John Hacker, city council members Keith Eller, Erv Ebersole, and Joe Blomeke, Huntington County Economic Development Board President Jeff Souder, Russ Felderman of Felderman Design and Build, Huntington County Chamber of Commerce president Steve Kimmel, First Farmers chief operation officer David Eikenberry, assistant vice president of mortgage lending Kathy Jones, senior project manager of Felderman Design Dan Eads, loan assistant Shari Spahr, senior commercial lender Doug Wilcox, and senior vice president of First Farmers Bank Mark Wolf. Construction of the 2,600 square foot new bank is set to be completed January 1, 2011. The bank will have drive-up service as well as an ATM on site. First Farmers has 19 other locations in north central Indiana and over 230 full time employees. Call First Farmers Bank and Trust at 765-395-3316 or go to www.ffbt.com for more information.

Cinergy MetroNet Opens their Doors

2010-10-07T00:00:00-04:00

Cinergy MetroNet held a grand opening celebration with over 100 people in attendance to welcome the new company and be the first to look at their newly renovated downtown office. Cinergy MetroNet is offering Digital TV, High Speed Internet, and Full-Feature Phone services to the city. The fiber-optic services that Cinergy is offering places Huntington in the highest technological echelon of cities. Cinergy MetroNet will install 10.5 million dollars of fiber-optic infrastructure when completed. Cinergy MetroNet President John Cinelli and Vice President Kevin Stelmach were on hand at the grand opening to invite the community into their new store. Huntington Mayor Steve Updike and Huntington County Economic Development's Mark WIckersham were also on hand to give speeches welcoming Cinergy MetroNet to the city. Call Cinergy MetroNet at 260-504-2400 or visit www.cinergymetronet.com for more information.

Regional ED Forum Coming to Huntington

2010-09-10T00:00:00-04:00

Huntington County Economic Development participates with regional partners to host an economic development forum.

Expanded Coverage of CSP Opening

2010-08-13T00:00:00-04:00

350 New Jobs Coming to Huntington

2010-08-12T00:00:00-04:00

350 new jobs coming to Huntington based on an investment of over $9 million. Continental Structural Plastics of Troy, Michigan announced it is establishing a factory in Huntington. Initital phases of production to being during the fall of 2010.

Advanced Engineering of Huntington Awarded Energy Efficiency Grant

2010-08-02T00:00:00-04:00

Mark Wickersham of HCUED joined Phil Layman of Advanced Engineering at a recent event with Indiana Lt. Governor Becky Skillman as the company received an Energy Efficiency Grant.

IDEM Hosts Public Meeting

2010-07-26T00:00:00-04:00

IDEM hosted a public meeting on July 22, 2010 to discuss a pending air quality permit application. IDEM corrected erroneous reports suggesting pesticides would be part of the project. No permit application for a pesticide plant has been filed because there is not a proposal for a pesticide plant.

Huntington County Unemployment Rate Improves in May

2010-06-18T00:00:00-04:00

For the third consecutive month the Huntington County Unemployment rate improves. The May 2010 unemployment rate for Huntington County was reported today at 10.7%.

Cinergy MetroNet to Locate in Downtown Huntington

2010-06-14T00:00:00-04:00

Cinergy MetroNet has acquired a building in downtown Huntington to develop a customer service center and retail store.

UT Electronic Controls Division Hosts Lime City Economic Development Committee

2010-06-01T00:00:00-04:00

UT Electronic Controls Division hosts the May 2010 Lime City Economic Development Committee Luncheon.

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2010-06-01T00:00:00-04:00

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234 More Huntington County Residents Find Jobs in April

2010-05-21T00:00:00-04:00

According to recently release employment figures for April of 2010, 234 more Huntington County Residents found jobs in April as compared to March.

Gas Grill Sales Contribute to Lowe's Profits

2010-05-18T00:00:00-04:00

Gas Grill Sales Contribute to Lowe's Profits.

Huntington Manufacturers Report on Growth

2010-05-17T00:00:00-04:00

Huntington Manufacturers Report on Growth at May 11, 2010 meeting of the Common Council for the City of Huntington.

HCUED's Helen Stevens Featured by Herald-Press

2010-05-10T00:00:00-04:00

HCUED's Helen Stevens was featured by the Huntington Herald-Press in their May 9, 2010 column, Your Neighbor, written by Rebecca L. Sandlin, Editor of the Huntington Herald-Press.

Pete & Alice Eshelman Honored by State of Indiana

2010-03-18T00:00:00-04:00

Pete & Alice Eshelman were honored by the State of Indiana Department of Agriculture for their Heritage Farms Japanese Wagyu Beef livestock operation.

Markle-Based Novae Corporation Grows

2010-03-18T00:00:00-04:00

Markle-based Novae Corporation purchases North Manchester facility. Plans to hire 85 new employees.

Huntington County Participates in Vision 2020

2010-03-17T00:00:00-04:00

Huntington County participates in Vision 2020 Project as sponsored by the Northeast Indiana Foundation in cooperation with the Northeast Regional Partnership, Steel Dynamics Corporation and Parkview Health Systems.

Fogwell Manufacturing Officially Cuts Ribbon on New Facility

2010-02-08T00:00:00-05:00

With the help of the Lime City Economic Development Committee and other local officials, the ribbon was officially cut opening Fogwell Manufacturing's new facility in Huntington's Riverforks Industrial Park.

Markle Industrial Park Option Secured by HCUED

2010-01-07T00:00:00-05:00

HCUED has secured an option to purchase 54 acres of the Markle Industrial Park and HCUED has successfully received notification that the location is now certified as a "Site Ready" location by the Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership.

65 New Jobs Coming to Huntington

2009-12-18T00:00:00-05:00

65 New Jobs Coming to Huntington by 2011 as Transwheel Corporation Expands.

November Unemployment Rate Drops

2009-12-18T00:00:00-05:00

The Huntington County unemployment rate improved by 1.4% in November compared to October.

25 New Jobs Coming to Huntington

2009-11-05T00:00:00-05:00

Fogwell Manufacturing announced today their plans for a new manufacturing facility in Huntington which will employ 25 workers.

300 New Jobs Coming to Huntington

2009-10-29T00:00:00-04:00

Onward Manufacturing Company Limited has opened their first U.S. grill manufacturing facility in Huntington, Indiana. 300 new jobs are expected.

September Unemployment Rate Drops for 3rd Consecutive Month in Huntington County

2009-10-22T00:00:00-04:00

September Unemployment Rate Drops for 3rd Consecutive Month in Huntington County.

Transwheel Corporation Expansion Tax Abatement Approved

2009-10-14T00:00:00-04:00

The Common Council for the City of Huntington gave unanimous approval for a ten year tax abatement for Transwheel Corporation as they consider plans for a major expansion in Huntington.

Fogwell Manufacturing Tax Abatement Approved

2009-10-14T00:00:00-04:00

The Common Council for the City of Huntington voted unimously to approve a ten year tax abatement for Fogwell Manufacturing Company as they consider establishing a new business in the Riverforks Industrial Park of Huntington.

Good Humor-Breyers Tax Abatement Approved

2009-09-14T00:00:00-04:00

The Common Council for the City of Huntington approved a tax abatement request for Good Humor-Breyers' Huntington Plant. The Company is planning an investment of $6,000,000 for new equipment, retaining 193 incumbent jobs and creating 7 new positions.

M & S Industrial Metal Fabricators Tax Abatement Approved

2009-09-14T00:00:00-04:00

The Common Council for the City of Huntington approved a tax abatement request from M & S Industrial Metal Fabricators as they plan to make an investment of $500,000 for new equipment.

Advanced Engineering Expanding

2009-09-01T00:00:00-04:00

Advanced Engineering of Huntington is expanding, creating 14 new jobs and retaining 30.

UTECH Among 1st Globally to Earn LEED-EB Certification

2009-08-07T00:00:00-04:00

UT Electronic Controls among 11 manufacturing plants worldwide to earn LEED-EB Certification.

Roanoke Welcomes Eight New Small Businesses

2009-07-22T00:00:00-04:00

Roanoke Welcomes Eight New Small Businesses

HCUED President Participates with Lt. Governor Skillman

2009-07-20T00:00:00-04:00

HCUED Board President Darlene Stanley, participates as a panelist at the 3rd Annual Advancing Hoosier Women in Business Seminar, July 7, 2009 at Huntington University. The event was sponsored by Lt. Governor Becky Skillman, OCRA, and the Indiana Small Business Development Center.

HCUED Board Retreat Includes Economic Development Experts

2009-07-20T00:00:00-04:00

HCUED's 2009 Board Retreat included regional economic development experts.

Bendix Sabine Street Facility Complete, Receives Incentives

2009-05-20T00:00:00-04:00

Mark Wickersham, Executive Director of HCUED and Huntington County Commissioner's President Tom Wall, present Bill Mossing, Vice President & General Manager of Bendix Modules Systems, an incentive check in support of Bendix newly opened facility at 1230 Sabine Street in Huntington.

Tax Abatements Approved for Transwheel Corporation

2009-05-20T00:00:00-04:00

The City of Huntington and the Town of Andrews recently approved tax abatement requests from Huntington's Transwheel Corporation as the company considers a possible expansion project involving both communities.

Bendix Sabine Street Facility Operational

2009-05-20T00:00:00-04:00

Bendix new facility at 1230 Sabine Street in Huntington now operational. Mark Wickersham and Tom Wall presented the company with an incentive check.

Lime City Committee to Meet May 29

2009-05-20T00:00:00-04:00

Huntington County United Economic Development Corporation Board members major bidders at 4-H livestock option.

Huntington County Featured in Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly

2009-04-14T00:00:00-04:00

The March 27-April 2, 2009 issue of the Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly features a 5 page focus on Huntington County, beginning on page 17.

IMI's Huntington Facilty Honored

2009-03-24T00:00:00-04:00

Irving Materials Huntington facility was honored recently by the Indiana Mineral Aggregates Association.

Roanoke to Receive CEDIT Grant

2009-03-17T00:00:00-04:00

The Huntington County Commissioners approved a CEDIT Grant for the Town of Roanoke during their meeting on Monday, March 16, 2009. The grant in the amount of $35,000.00 is to assist with a proposal by the Town to acquire land at the corner of Vine and Main Streets, commonly known as the former site of the C&M Plating Company.

Warren to Receive CEDIT Grants

2009-03-17T00:00:00-04:00

The Huntington County Commissioners Approve CEDIT Grants for the Town of Warren during the Commissioners meeting on Monday, March 16, 2009. Two grants were approved in the amounts of $30,000.00 associated with electric utility infrastructure improvements needed for an industrial project with Heartland Aluminum Corporation and $15,000.00 for anticipated costs to complete the downtown street-scape project.

Indiana Secretary of Commerce E. Mitchell Roob Visits United Technologies

2009-03-16T00:00:00-04:00

Indiana Secretary of Commerce E. Mitchell Roob visits United Technologies Electronic Controls Division of Huntington in celebration of their selection as one of Industry Week Magazine's Top Ten Best Plants in North America.

Funds Sought for Roanoke Highway Project

2009-02-24T00:00:00-05:00

Funds sought for Roanoke Highway Project.

Markle Water Tower Project Proposed

2009-02-24T00:00:00-05:00

Markle water tower proposed to upgrade and expand service at the Markle Industrial Park.

Poverty Simulation Motivational to HCUED Executive Director

2009-02-24T00:00:00-05:00

HCUED Executive Director Mark Wickersham participates in a poverty simulation program sponsored by the Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service in Huntington County.

Huntington County Community School Corporation Board Receives HCUED Update

2009-02-24T00:00:00-05:00

HCUED Annual Report Presented to the Huntington County Community School Corporation Board.

TransWheel Teams Up with ACS

2009-02-23T00:00:00-05:00

TransWheel Corporation of Huntington recently teamed up with ACS Corporation of New Haven, Indiana to create a new machine for the replacement wheel provider (TransWheel).

Andrews Town Council Reappoints Van Juillerat to HCUED Board

2009-01-15T00:00:00-05:00

Andrews, Indiana Town Council reappoints Van Juillerat to be its representative on the HCUED Board.

Huntington County Commissioners Hear HCUED Report

2009-01-15T00:00:00-05:00

Huntington County Commissioners hear HCUED report.

Local Industries Recognized by HCUED

2009-01-08T00:00:00-05:00

Local Industries Recognized at 1st Annual HCUED Business Appreciation Luncheon, November 24, 2008.

HCUED Presents Award to UT Electronic Controls Division

2009-01-08T00:00:00-05:00

Mark Wickersham, Executive Director of HCUED presents a plaque to United Technologies, Electronic Controls Division in appreciation for their Company's commitment to Huntington County.

UT Electronics Huntington Plant among top ten in North America

2009-01-08T00:00:00-05:00

Industry Week Magazine recognizes Huntington's United Technologies Electronic Controls Division as one of the top ten best plants in North America.

Huntington County Businesses Featured in 2009 Book of Lists

2009-01-05T00:00:00-05:00

Several Huntington County Businesses have been included in the 2009 Book of Lists by the Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly Publication.

HCUED Business Appreciation Luncheon Featured SEC Counsel Marc Wheat

2008-12-04T00:00:00-05:00

The 1st Annual HCUED Business Appreciation Luncheon featured SEC Counsel Marc Wheat and the announcement of a new distribution center in Huntington.

Cequent Towing Products Announces 130,000 Square Foot Distribution Center in Huntington

2008-11-24T00:00:00-05:00

Cequent Towing Products of Plymouth, Michigan announces new distribution center in Huntington Creating twenty (20) new jobs.

Wickersham Appears Before the Roanoke Town Council

2008-11-19T00:00:00-05:00

HCUED's Executive Director appeared before the Roanoke Town Council on November 18 to provide an update on HCUED's activities. The Town Board voted unanimously to continue their funding commitment to HCUED.

HCUED's Executive Director Reports to Joint Meeting of Kiwanis and Optimist Clubs

2008-11-19T00:00:00-05:00

HCUED's Executive Director Mark Wickersham was the keynote speaker for a joint meeting of the Huntington Optimist and Kiwanis Luncheon Clubs on November 13.

Cash Awarded for Business Concept Challenge

2008-10-26T00:00:00-04:00

Venture Works awards cash to winners of Business Concept Challenge.

Venture Works Youth Symposium a Success

2008-10-26T00:00:00-04:00

Venture Works Youth Symposium a Success.

$10,000 Award for Business Plan

2008-10-26T00:00:00-04:00

Venture Works awards $10,000 to winner of Business Plan Competition.

$10,000 Award for Business Plan

2008-10-26T00:00:00-04:00

Venture Works awards $10,000 to winner of Business Plan Competition.

Jennifer Kannon reports on HCUED's proposed new governing structure.

2008-10-16T00:00:00-04:00

Jennifer Kannon reports on HCUED's proposed new governing structure.

HCUED Discusses Proposals for New By-Laws

2008-10-16T00:00:00-04:00

Jennifer Kannon reports on HCUED's proposed new governing structure.

HCUED Finishes Strategic Plan

2008-10-15T00:00:00-04:00

Herald-Press Reporter Jennifer Kannon reports on HCUED's Strategic Plan.

Midwest Industrial Metal Fabrication to Create 33 New Jobs in Huntington

2008-10-07T00:00:00-04:00

Midwest Industrial Metal Fabrication announced their plans to expand their operations in Huntington, Indiana creating 33 new jobs.

Bendix to Create 46 New Jobs

2008-10-07T00:00:00-04:00

Bendix creates 46 new jobs at Huntington facility. Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels on hand to participate in the announcement celebration.

Gerdau MacSteel to Create 20 New Jobs

2008-10-07T00:00:00-04:00

Gerdau MacSteel announced their plan to create 20 new jobs through a major expansion of their Huntington facility. Mayor Updike, Mark Wickersham, and Ben Bontrager from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation were on hand to break ground with Gerdau MacSteel executives.