Century Aluminum, a global producer of primary aluminum has created a buzz with an announcement that it is going to invest US$116.5 million for the improvement of one of its smelters in Hawesville, Kentucky and offer jobs to 250 personnel. This announcement was made on Wednesday April 4, 2018 by Governor Matt Bevin, where he said that the company will upgrade its smelting technology and train new and existing employees to use the new equipment for producing aluminium required for aerospace, defense, and electrical industries, reported by The Messenger-Inquirer of Owensboro.
On the advent of this news, many county leaders and business owners have started analysing its potential impact on the market. Hancock County Industrial Foundation Director Mike Baker said that this enhancement of employment will pay around US$60,000 a year.
Matt Bevin acclaimed this announcement as a boon for Hancock County and Hawesville, while Hancock County Judge Executive Jack McCaslin is of opinion that rehiring old employees will be great for those laid off a few years ago.
Melissa Mooneyham, a resident of Hancock County, who knew many people worked at Century expressed, "My initial was that I was excited about the jobs, and then of course, I just kind of doubted it.” She also said, "I think if they kick off what they really do and stay with it, I think it will have a huge impact on Hancock County and the local counties.”
Some other residents like her also believe that this new vision of Century Aluminum has a potential for better business, though they're unsure of the long term economic impact.
To support this expansion, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority has also approved tax concession of up to US$5.5 million.
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