Globe developmentgood for economy
Recently, taxpayers have been bombarded with bad news. The problems on Wall Street, New York state’s budget deficit, the crumbling banking industry and record-high fuel prices are only a few of the issues that we constantly hear about. In the recent past, we have heard very little, if any, good financial news until now.
Globe Metallurgical has announced that it is currently re-developing its site on Highland Avenue to produce silicon for the solar cell industry. It is estimated that Globe will invest $60 million into this project over the next three years. In a time that many other companies are cutting back, moving operations overseas or seeking a government bailout. Globe is doing the complete opposite. Globe is actually expanding its business and creating jobs in our city. In fact, Globe expects the creation of about 500 jobs with an average salary of $52,000 per year. Obviously, many of these jobs will be obtained by residents of our city.
As can be expected, this type of massive undertaking requires intensive work and coordination at all levels of the public and private sectors. There are countless people who deserve credit for working to make this project viable. But we must recognize Sam Ferraro, Niagara County Commissioner of Economic Development and his staff for their diligence and hard work on this project.
Mayor Paul Dyster, our City Council, and the city’s economic development team also deserve recognition for their assistance in bringing this project to life.
Additionally, the Niagara County Legislature’s Economic Development Committee, through the leadership of its Chairman Rick Updegrove and Vice Chairwoman Andrea McNulty, has been instrumental in supporting this project. Specifically, a special Economic Development Committee meeting was convened last week to enable the county to apply for funding through the New York State Department of Transportation. This funding, if approved, will be used to update and restore rail service to the Globe plant.
It is very rewarding when we, elected officials, have the opportunity to work across party lines and hand-in-hand with the private sector to bring jobs and development to our constituents.
Jason Murgia, legislator
1st District
Renae Kimble, legislator
2nd District
Jason Cafarella, legislator
3rd District
Dennis Virtuoso, legislator
4th District, minority leader
Sean O’Connor, legislator
5th District
