(EDASO | Ross CIC | JEDISO) -- On Wednesday, December 11th, more than thirty members of the economic development community gathered in the Carlisle Community Room in downtown Chillicothe for the Greater Chillicothe & Ross County Development Celebration Breakfast.
Director Tammy Eallonardo shared the economic successes of 2019, as well as challenges for the new year. Among the achievements presented: $211 million in private capital investment, $7.3 million in anticipated new payroll, 130 new jobs when the current projects come online in 2021, and more than $537,000 in grant awards for private development projects.
Fluor BWXT, the contractor responsible for the decontamination and decommissioning of the DOE site in Piketon, received appreciation for their contribution of $95,000 to Ross County projects in 2019. The funds are drawn from the Opportunity Fund, an important piece of the Fluor BWXT Community Commitment Plan established to support job creation and strengthen the economy of the region.
Guest Speaker Kara Willis, Growth Advisor for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership of The Ohio State University - South Centers, spoke about workforce training and business support. Over recent months, Willis and Eallonardo have partnered with local manufacturers, many of whom are now experiencing new efficiencies and cost savings.
Eallonardo stated that participating in leadership training or credentialing programs can mean the difference between a job and a career to members of our local workforce, and encouraged others to take advantage of the programs.
“Our local workforce is one of our greatest assets. It sets us apart from other regions. We need to nurture and develop it,” she said.
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Looking toward 2020, Eallonardo shared plans for a Kenworth Truck Parade scheduled for Saturday, June 6, in downtown Chillicothe.
“Ninety percent of Kenworth’s Class 8 Heavy Duty truck line is built right here in Chillicothe, Ohio, and it’s time we celebrate it,” Eallonardo stated. Her boast was met with excited applause. The event is expected to draw participants from around the nation and neighboring countries.
More information about the event, which will also serve to raise funds for local non-profit organizations, will follow in the weeks to come and will include sponsorship opportunities. (The Kenworth pictured is the first registrant for the 2020 event.)
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Greater Chillicothe & Ross County Development is a 501(c)3 Public/Private Partnership, commonly known as a P3. Funding is received from annual pledges by private investors, the City of Chillicothe and the County of Ross, OH.
If you are interested in becoming an Investor Partner, please contact Eallonardo for more information: teallonardo@gcrcd.com.