ETNA GREEN — Brian Bailey, president of Winona Powder Coating was back at this month’s Etna Green Council to pursue the expansion of Winona Powder. The topic had previously been discussed in June.

Bailey was present to initiate discussion regarding an abatement for Winona’s expansion. Bailey stated that the initial abatement he was seeking was for $9.6 million of equipment for one manufacturing line and its supporting tank farm. The new equipment will go into an existing building at the business’s 9876 W. Old US 30, Etna Green, location.

The tank farm will be scaled to support two lines; Bailey is anticipating adding an additional two or three lines over the next four to five years. The facility will operate at around 10 people per line per shift with three shifts, totaling an additional 30 employees per line.

Being only the second supplier in their particular industry, Bailey explained that the business opportunity is not solely based on the economy. “It’s a great opportunity for us whether the economy is doing well or not,” said Bailey.

CEO of Kosciusko County Economic Development George Robertson was also present at the meeting to give his support to the project. “It’s been a while in the making and we’re just happy we’re at this meeting now,” said Robertson.

Representatives at Winona are responsible for drafting the abatement ordinance. The process should move forward within the next several days.

In other business:

• The adoption hearing for the 2018 budget was held; there was no public comment.
• Accounts payable vouchers in the amount of $152,017.95 were approved.
• Two one-time utility adjustments in the total amount of $60.83 were approved.
• Etna Green Fire will be hosting another chicken and fish fry, 4-7 p.m. Nov. 4.
• Options to either sell or auction two old fire department units were discussed.