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Released: Wednesday, December 26, 2001
Lt. Governor/Commerce & Housing Secretary
Gary Sherrer today announced the award of $2 million in Economic Development
funds to the communities of Bern, Russell, and Seneca. Funded through the U.S.
Small Cities Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, grants are
administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce & Housing (KDOC&H).
The three projects will create a total 66 jobs.
Economic Development grants are given to cities or counties that, in turn, loan
the funds to private businesses that create or retain permanent jobs. Funding is
also available for infrastructure improvements that directly create or retain
permanent jobs.
The City of Bern will receive $750,000 of CDBG funds on behalf of C. J. Foods,
Inc., a manufacturer of specialty animal foods and treats. This award will
include funding for the purchase and installation of equipment at the pet food
plant, as well as the construction of an industrial pre-treatment facility. The
CDBG funds will be matched with $6 million of private and local financing. The
project will create 26 jobs.
The City of Seneca will receive $500,000 of CDBG funds on behalf of Koch &
Company, a manufacturer of doors and cabinets. The CDBG loan and grant will fund
infrastructure and building construction for the expansion of the door division.
The CDBG funding will be matched with $447,500 of bank financing and $67,400 of
local funds. The project will create 18 jobs.
“It is important in difficult economic times that we partner with businesses
to make significant investments in jobs and facilities for these communities,”
said Lt. Governor/KDOC&H Secretary Gary Sherrer.
The Kansas Department of Commerce & Housing is the state’s lead economic development organization, responsible for ensuring economic opportunities for all Kansans.