Electricfil has added new customers over its eight year history in Limestone County, and sales are expected to continue to grow rapidly. The expansion will support increased demand expected from the automotive industry in the coming years.
Tom Hill, president of the Limestone County Economic Development Association, said he’s thrilled by the size of the expansion and the prospect of additional jobs for Limestone Countians.
“They’ve been here since 2004 and have done a really good job of meeting the needs of the automotive industry, and they’ve been rewarded with a lot of new business that will allow them to expand the facility,” he said. “It’s a real positive step for Limestone County and Elkmont. We’re happy they’re expanding and we look forward to assisting them in the future.”
Elkmont Mayor Tracy Compton was equally excited about the size of the expansion. He said if the company hires 200 new workers by 2017, there would be almost as many employees working at Electricfil as there are residents of Elkmont.
“This is a huge deal for the town,” he said. “(Electricfil officials) have praised the surrounding area for the level of expertise. They’ve been pleased with the workforce, and we can’t say enough good about them.”
Electricfil’s expansion was aided in part by a decision made to correct water-pressure problems at the Elkmont Industrial Park. Local leaders decided the best way to correct the issue would be to install a 150,000-gallon water tank and pump.
In December, Bentley announced the project would receive a $250,000 Community Development Block Grant, administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.
Gov. Robert Bentley along with the Alabama Development Office and the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs in conjunction with the Limestone County Commission and the town of Elkmont assisted with grant money and matching funds for the necessary water expansion project.
“Helping Alabama communities to grow and develop the services and amenities that attract new business and encourage existing businesses to expand is vital to our state’s economic future,” Bentley said in a press release. “I am pleased to provide investment in the future of Elkmont and Alabama.”
Electricfil spokesperson Lynn Lane said about 120 jobs will be added from now through 2015 and up to 80 more will come in 2016-17. Most of the first wave will be in manufacturing, although some engineering jobs could be added. "We could do some hiring this year, but the majority of hiring will start in 2012." she said. "I'm excited about the expansion." Lane said. "I've been here since day one. It's a small facility, and we're finally at the point where we can grow."
The Hill Spirit was at the Limestone Republican Headquarters today. Finally found it, it is on the south side of the courthouse in the middle of the row of shops lining the street. It is time for political signs and this is where to get your Republican signs, pins and bumper stickers. Picked up two signs and a bumper sticker, should have gotten a pin too.
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