With support from economic incentives provided by Pasco County and city leaders, MiTek, an international building supply company, is set to open a new $77.6 million, 480,000-square-foot manufacturing plant and warehouse in Zephyrhills.
Founded in 1955, MiTek will produce steel connector plates and construction products at the facility. The company acquired a 111-acre site in the North Tampa Bay Industrial Park for over $9 million in January, according to property records.
After months of negotiations, the deal was finalized when the Pasco County Commission approved a 10-year, $3.15 million tax reimbursement package and a workforce training grant on Tuesday.
Located north of Chancey Road and east of Paul S. Buchman Highway, the site is one of the “ready site” properties promoted by the Pasco Economic Development Council for large manufacturing projects. One key requirement for MiTek was direct access to a rail network via its own rail spur. The site’s proximity to a major CSX rail line makes this possible.
“I am excited that MiTek chose Pasco County for its Southeast Center of Excellence,” said Bill Cronin, president and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council, in a news release.
The new plant will help MiTek retain 125 jobs from its facilities in Largo and Tampa, while creating an additional 25 jobs.
In September, the Zephyrhills City Council approved a $2.9 million incentive package, which includes waiving or reimbursing transportation impact and permitting fees. Additionally, the city will provide a job-creation grant covering 50% of property taxes paid during the first 10 years.
At the Pasco Commission meeting, David Engel, the county’s planning and economic development director, noted that the average wage at the new facility will be $71,286, which is 125% of the county’s average wage.
“We are thrilled to establish roots in Pasco County and contribute to its economic growth,” said Douglas Krauss, MiTek’s senior vice president. “This location not only keeps us close to our existing team, but also allows us to expand our capacity and meet the needs of our Florida-based customers.”
Krauss added, “This investment is for the long-term, benefiting MiTek, our customers, and the Pasco County community.”
The first phase of the site development, which includes civil, environmental, and architectural research, is already underway. Phase two will follow as permits are finalized, with construction set to begin before year’s end.
“The site is perfect for us,” said MiTek’s vice president of marketing during a video call with the county commissioners. “We were immediately drawn to the small-town charm of Zephyrhills.”
Zephyrhills Mayor Melonie Monson welcomed the project, stating, “We will welcome you with open arms,” and highlighted the city’s efforts to preserve the Chancey Road area for job-creating industries.
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