The Pierceton Town Council got some good economic news at its monthly meeting held Monday, May 11.

Two companies announced plans to expand operations.

To start the meeting, Dan Richard of the Area Plan Commission recommended a rezoning request on behalf of the Carey Group. The zoning request would reclassify seven acres in the Matchett Industrial Park, just north of US 30, from light industrial to commercial.

Bowen Center plans to build an inpatient facility in the location. Representatives noted that the area of land suits their needs perfectly. Richard reported that APC voted 8-0 to approve the rezoning.

The council approved the request.

Also, Chester Inc., which is headquartered in Valparaiso, also announced plans to construct a facility at Matchett Industrial Park. Chester representatives appeared before the council requesting a 10-year tax abatement.

The company plans to build a 20,000 sq.-ft. facility. The new facility would add 25 new employees, expected to make an average income of $30 per hour. Additionally, the actual construction is a long-term project for NIPSCO, expected to bring 40 skilled employees to the area during construction.

A public hearing regarding the tax abatement will be held next month. Chester Inc. provides construction services, agricultural systems and information technology services.

Also at last night’s meeting, Town Manager Chip Hill reported that the sewer project had started, and would hopefully be completed in the fall.

The next meeting of the Pierceton Town Council is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 8.