VANDERBILT - The Vanderbilt Village Council unanimously voted Nov. 7 to establish an Industrial Development District (IDD) in the village, which was effective immediately.

The IDD is comprised of 43 acres already zoned for industrial use, an area that already includes H&H Tube Manufacturing Inc., Van Products, the Old Pallet Mill and Dozer Construction Inc.

The proposed IDD will provide an incentive to new industry warehousing and distribution companies through the abatement of real and personal property tax for up to 12 years. Already established companies existing within the district are eligible for abatement on building or equipment additions.

According to Jeff Ratcliffe, executive director of the Otsego County Economic Alliance, the district is primarily for manufacturing companies and the activities related to manufacturing.

“This is an offering of an incentive by a local government to a company. It doesn't affect any other transactions,” said Ratcliffe. “The local Industrial District doesn't change anybody's taxes now and doesn't change the taxable property.”

New businesses or businesses expanding within the established district will make an application to the local government, in this case the village, for the abatement.

“We have an existing company very interested in this,” said Ratcliffe, although he added that he was not at liberty to reveal the industry.

Community members present at the meeting showed support for the district. But one was concerned about attracting more than businesses to the village.

“We don't want to have people come in and get their tax abatement and use us,” said Michael Blackman. “We've got to clean up our own act if we want people to come live here ... I just think there are some other things that should be looked at too.”

Village President Elizabeth Haus said she was aware of the important role the industries like H&H Tube Manufacturing, Unipro and Van Products have in the village.

Carol Quigley, owner of Van Products and Unipro, had considered selling both plants in Vanderbilt where 160 people are employed. She has since decided against that idea.

Subscribe to the Herald Times

• Visitor Comments

No comments posted.