DAVIESS COUNTY — A new industrial development proposed near a major transit corridor in northern Daviess County received key financial backing Wednesday morning as county officials approved tax abatement requests for J. Wagler Family Properties LLC.
During its regular July meeting, the Daviess County Council held a public hearing regarding the proposed commercial project, located near the intersection of State Road 58 and Interstate 69 near Elnora (13090 N. 500 East).
Following the hearing, council members voted unanimously to pass a confirmatory resolution granting tax abatements for both real and personal property tied to the construction and outfitting of the new industrial facility.
Economic and Workforce Growth
Daviess County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC) Executive Director Bob Grewe spoke in support of the project during the meeting, framing the investment as a strategic win for northern Daviess County.
Grewe told council members that the expansion near the I-69 interchange serves dual priorities for the region: driving economic growth and expanding local workforce opportunities.
Under the approved incentives:
- Real Property: A 10-year tax abatement schedule, phasing in real estate property taxes at 10% per year.
- Personal Property: A 5-year tax abatement schedule for equipment and machinery, phasing in taxes at 20% per year.
The strategic location near the State Road 58 and I-69 interchange provides immediate highway access, making the site advantageous for industrial and supply-chain operations in the region.
Additional Council Business
Beyond the J. Wagler Family Properties public hearing, the council addressed several other business, budget, and infrastructure items on Wednesday’s agenda:
- WestGate Infrastructure: Council members reviewed a proposal regarding the WestGate water tower project presented by the Southern Indiana Development Commission (SIDC). WAMW
- Tax Abatement Reviews: The council conducted routine compliance reviews for ongoing tax abatements, including existing agreements for Grain Processing Corporation (GPC).
- Park & Personnel Adjustments: Members considered salary ordinance amendments for administrative and supervisory positions at West Boggs Park. WAMW
- Appropriations: The council approved $81,000 in additional appropriations, including $70,000 allocated for general facility repairs and maintenance, as well as grant-supported funds designated for local health department supplies and a countywide CPR/AED program.
