Numbers have been compiled for economic development accomplishments in Geary County over the past five years. According to EDC Director Mickey Fornaro-Dean the top six projects created $64 million in investment. During that time the City and County combined to provide $1,414, 104 in funding support. When that amount is subtracted from the $64 million total that leaves $62,585, 896. She provided her report to the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors on Thursday.
Fornaro-Dean noted that gives their City and County partners a $44.26 return on investment for dollars contributed. "The return on investment numbers are pretty exciting to see." Fornaro added that the community is doing much better as a community working together. She cited the effort to attract a Veterans Home, inclusion in the IKE program involving the planned Taylor Road interchange and expansion of existing businesses. "I think we've seen some pretty good successes."
Work with ( Camso ) Michelin and Superior Products were two of the successful six projects mentioned by Fornaro-Dean. The six projects combined represent 245 new jobs at an average wage of $20 per hour. That equates to an average of 49 new jobs per year with a potential new payroll of $50 million per year over five years. This represents reused or new industrial or commercial space of 387,500 sq. ft. or an average of 77,500 sq. ft. per year. Fornaro-Dean called it a solid beginning to economic growth in Junction City and Geary County.