By DAVE SCHULTZ
MARKLE — Wayne Metals is expanding its Markle operations, adding a 38,000-square-foot facility and a fiber laser cell.
The estimated cost for the two improvements is an estimated $6,750,000, according to documents filed with the Markle Town Council Thursday night. The documents asked for tax abatement on the improvements on a five-year basis — 100 percent the first year and going down each year to 85 percent, 75, 65, and 50 percent.
The three Markle Town Council members — Matthew Doss, Nick Lund, and Blake Caley — all voted in favor of the abatement request.
Wayne Metals was represented at Tuesday’s meeting by Andrew Wigner, the company’s controller. Chad Kline, Wells County’s economic development director, also helped present the company’s plans and formally request approval of the abatement request.
“We’d like to express our thanks to them for their continued investment,” Kline told the council. Kline added that Bluffton-based Briner Building Inc. will construct the $4 million facility, which will consolidate its warehouse and shipping operations. The company said it expects to have the building, which will connect to its current facility at 400 E. Logan St./U.S. 224, completed by August of next year.
In a press release, Wayne Metals said the second investment will be what it called a “state-of-the-art fiber laser cell.”
“This strategic investment will bolster their competitive edge in the market, supporting their vision of continued growth and industry leadership,” the press release from Kline’s office said.
Wayne Metals has three manufacturing facilities, two in Markle and one in Allen County. The company specializes in stamping, fabrication, and powder coating.
The company employs 180 people right now and the investments are expected to add 10 people to the payroll.
“We appreciate our long-standing partnership with Indiana, Wells County, and the town of Markle for their unwavering economic support and recognize our responsibility as a leader in the community now and in the future,” said Rollyn Coverdale, Wayne Metals’ chief operating officer.
“Wayne Metals has established itself as a pioneer and leader in stamping, fabrication, and finishing,” Kline said in his news release. “It has been exciting to see this company continuing to expand its presence in its hometown through an investment of over $4 million in a 38,000-square foot building expansion and an additional $2.75 million in equipment.”
Doss, president of the Markle council, also made a statement in the announcement.
“The significant growth plans will not only enhance production capabilities but also create new job opportunities and enhance job security for its workforce,” Doss said in the press release. “This investment reaffirms Wayne Metals’ position as a first-class employer in Markle.”
Kline added that based on the company’s investment and job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation and the town of Markle committed incentives to support of the project.
daves@news-banner.com
