KEDC reimburses three for growth activites

Carter Chambers, one company affected by the fire at the old National Oilwell building, has re-opened in the former Capco building on Hwy. 42 south.

Carter Chambers officials signed papers with Kilgore Economic Development Corporation that will reimburse the company $90,000 — with a certificate of occupancy — after making $800,000 in real improvements. In addition to adding another $400,000 in personal property, the company has also agreed to double the existing staff of 22.

Carter Chambers assembles, sells, repairs and distributes industrial valves.

Merritt Tool will also benefit from an economic development agreement with KEDC. Having just added $2.2 million in equipment, the company is slated to receive a reimbursement of $50,000.

High Point Packaging, a printer of gift-wrapping paper, will receive $25,000 for their investment of $1 million in equipment and the addition of 10 jobs over the next three years. High Point is in the old HydroSeal building at 1610 N. Hwy. 259.

KEDC Board of Directors met last week to discuss economic development agreements and more.

Amanda Nobles, KEDC executive director, reported to directors that the corporation and City of Kilgore have a higher rate of increase than any other East Texas city — including Longview and Tyler — in sales tax revenue. This month the allocation to the corporation was up 12.94 percent bringing the fiscal year total to $3,283,207. The average rise across the state was 7.7 percent.

Nobles also reported on the status of various corporation projects, including the project of FM 349 that would widen the road, allowing for better traffic flow at Synergy Park.

According to Nobles the project is set to begin in the coming weeks after a period of delay for rain.

Nobles said the detention pond at Synergy Park is progressing and is undergoing material testing.

A state inspection of the pavilion at Synergy Park reveal some changes that must occur in order to be in compliance with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) regulations, including moving one trash container, relocation of a handicapaccessible picnic table and changing the slope of a ramp to the restrooms.

According to Nobles, a Synergy Park regular who walks the trails often has volunteered to keep an eye on things at the park and do an occasional litter sweep. Nobles said the corporation may incorporate a volunteer program at the park, for those who want to keep the trails beautiful.