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LEWISTOWN -- During its annual membership meeting, held Dec. 22, Mifflin County Industrial Development Corporation President and CEO Nick Felice gave a report outlining the State of the Corporation.
"During this very difficult year, MCIDC has been extremely blessed in that our revenues have remained steady," he said. "This is a testament to the strength and management of those businesses that make up our tenant base. Their ability to continue operating while facing the economic downturn and restrictions caused by the Pandemic is truly extraordinary.
"MCIDC has seen a significant positive trend relating to the organization's cash flow longevity. Simply stated, we have been able to secure more longer-term leases: seeing 15 lease renewals this year. This means we have the financial means and more flexibility to maintain buildings and operations, in a more effective manner."
Being on firm financial footing, MCIDC was able to assist Mifflin County with administering the COVID-19 Relief Grant Program, by providing administrative and programmatic support. Working hand-in-hand with the County Planning Commission, Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Lewistown Inc., MCIDC helped with collecting and reviewing more than 60 application packages for small businesses and non-profits.
"Seeing the devastation brought upon our county by the pandemic, we were committed to help out our business and non-profit community in any way possible," Felice said.
Working with SEDA-Council of Governments, MCIDC was able to get a 10-year extension of the Keystone Opportunity Zone program for approximately 40 acres located in the Mifflin County Industrial Park. The KOZ program is a tax abatement incentive program which allows developers to build on blighted or underutilized land and receive reduced or eliminated taxes in return for the investment. Some infrastructure projects completed during 2020 included the completion of a land sale to Greenbrier Rail Services, relocation of the MCIDC maintenance department, plaza utility mapping and roof rehabilitation on Building 21.
Concerning workforce development, MCIDC continued to support the Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce's Business and Education Committee.
"Even though the pandemic restrictions limited committee activities, we are still committed to its purpose of educating students and parents about the realities of the current and future job opportunities, with an eye toward advocating for technology/hands-on based educational opportunities," Felice said. "College is certainly not necessary for many jobs. However additional post-high school training usually is.
"Also during 2020, our resilient entrepreneurs also continued to meet during the year, exchanging ideas and helping one another get through the trials and tribulations brought about by the Pandemic. Since its started in 2018, it is one of our most positive initiatives."
MCIDC partners with JVRCC to organize meetings usually held every other month.
Moving into 2021, MCIDC will complete an asbestos abatement project in one of its dilapidated buildings and will look to demolish the structure and build a new industrial/warehouse building on the same footprint.
"We have applied to the commonwealth for financial support to help with the project and are confident we will receive some support," Felice said. "Another initiative we are working on is a regional marketing effort describing the advantages of rural central Pa. compared to urban areas: who are faced with increased risks from the pandemic and civil unrest. It's our intention to target market to millennials and business owners/operators to consider relocating here."
Also, MCIDC has budgeted $250,000 for maintenance and $373,000 for capital projects, which include roof rehab, paving, equipment purchases and sprinkler valve replacement.
"Another potential project being looked at is the redevelopment of the western side of the plaza," Felice said. "This could possibly include demolition and construction of a new warehouse building. It is very much conceptual right now, with some engineering evaluation likely to take place during the coming year."
The meeting ended with thanks and appreciation to retiring board members Dave Borland, Ruth Fisher, Steve Palm and Fran Evanitsky, as well as a moment to honor Jim Spendiff, who passed away earlier this year.
"All five of these individuals graciously gave their time and effort to help our agency and community over many years," Felice said. "Their counsel and expertise helped staff manage the affairs and initiatives in which MCIDC becomes involved. They will be missed."