The resolution authorizes transfer of 23 acres in Industrial Park West to the Development Authority for expansion of ZF Industries for its new automatic transmission plant to fill a contract from Nissan.
Tim Evans, vice president of economic development for the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, said it means more jobs.
"This is a big deal," Evans said. "This is an exciting project for us because it's new jobs and investment; we're seeing a lot of investment opportunity coming from our multi-national companies right now because of the weakness of the dollar and the strength of the Euro and the Yen. This is ZF, and it's a great renewal of their commitment."
Evans said the expansion brings a $41 million investment to Gainesville and 80 new employees.
ZF, a German company, located in Gainesville in 1987 and its plants employ 331 people.
ALCOHOL ORDINANCE UPDATE
City council members decided they wanted more time to decide how to revamp the city's alcohol beverage ordinance.
City Marshal Debbie Jones said state law has made changes, including a more liberal approach that allows retailers to hold wine tastings.
Jones said a store with 65 percent package wine retail business could hold them; non-wine retailers or non-profit groups have to apply for a special permit.
MOVING DAY SOON FOR HALL TRANSIT
Gainesville Community Services Director Phillippa Lewis Moss told city council that Hall Area Transit is only 60 days away from moving out of the Community Services Center.
The council reviewed a resolution to authorize Phase 2 of the renovation project to relocate transit headquarters at 687 Main Street.
The total project cost for the second construction phase is $291,000.
Tim Evans presents ZF expansion site
http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/7/211437