The Richland Community Development Group (RCDG) saw a focus on economic viability in the first half of 2013. RCDG and State Representative Mark Romanchuk collaborated to explore the energy sector of Ohio’s economy as well.
Energy and Ohio’s economy were addressed at two events. One event brought business leaders together with JobsOhio to focus on attracting businsses to the the county. The other event invited more than 125 companies to discuss how local businesses can explore the economic benefits of Ohio’s shale play.
As for retaining and expanding existing businesses, RCDG witnessed several results. The group assisted seven companies to potential expansion projects. They also joined Team NEO and JobsOhio to explore the potential of over $1.2 million incentives, worked with ODOT on three proposed projects, and obtained a $250,000 equipment grant for recycling.
Reaching out across the county, RCDGs’ efforts reached the communities of Shelby, Mansfield, Ontario and Lexington and represented several industry sectors including manufacturing and services. Their projects could generate 345 new jobs within three years and $65,500,000 in capital investments.