volume 16 number 3 news · advicoach of mid-michigan tamrox automotive 6-10 years reynolds...

JULY/AUG./SEPT. 2017 CHAMBER NEWS 1*Content written by outside sources do not reflect the views & opinions of the Chamber.

The City of Jackson’s focus on economic development within the community continues to pay off.

2017 J U LY / AU G . / S E P T.VOLUME 16 NUMBER 3

News5 6-7 8-9 12-15

SEASON OF OPPORTUNIT YNEW AT THE OFFICE CALENDAR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

A fter breaking ground in early November, the “Lofts on Louis” development work continues

apace – the first such development within the City of Jackson in at least 15 years. After erecting the stairwells and elevator shaft for the four-story building, crews are now working on constructing the second story. The $5.4 million, 45,000 square foot project is expected to be complete by the end of the year and includes 30 apartment units and a commercial space on the first floor.

The apartment units will include granite counter tops, nine-foot ceilings, stainless steel appliances, and individual washers and dryers. Officials said that virtually all the apartments were leased before the building even broke ground.

In the shadow of the Lofts on Louis project, another community development hosted a ribbon cutting in May.

After nearly two years of planning, fund raising and construction, City officials and project donors at least unveiled the Glidden Parker mural during a ribbon cutting event Friday, May 5. CP Federal City Square now houses the mural within Horace Blackman Park. The structure also includes an art

exhibit viewing area, a stage for outdoor performances and events, and a drop-down screen for outdoor movies.

O’Harrow Construction began work on the project last summer. The 28-by-9-foot stained glass mural is set to be lit during night-time hours within the city.

In addition to the Lofts on Louis and the CP Federal City Square, another downtown Jackson project could be on the horizon.

The news that Jackson-based engineering firm Commonwealth Associates is working closely with city officials toward building a new headquarters within the downtown city limits came earlier this season, when the city and firm entered into an agreement in January. The current timeline for the project would see earth excavated beginning in the spring of 2018, and city and firm officials continue to work toward that end.

I hope everyone is having a fantastic summer. The weather has been beautiful and I have

certainly enjoyed many of the great parks, attractions and events that Jackson has to offer. Most importantly, our economy has been great! The new commercial and residential construction downtown looks fantastic and there are more developments coming soon. Many Chamber Members are having record years and are making capital improvements to their facilities and investing not only in their business, but in Jackson. We are seeing significant investment in our infrastructure by the City of Jackson…I encourage you to look beyond the orange barrels and see the future of our city. As you read through this newsletter, I hope you are as excited as I am about the next 5-10 years. You can see there are so many people, businesses and organizations investing in the future of Jackson and this is only a selection of the great work being done in our community. The Chamber of Commerce has securely found a seat at the Economic Development table in Jackson and we will continue to work with key stakeholders across the region to advocate for our

members and strengthen our business climate.

JOSH BURGETT

Board Chair of the Jackson County Chamber

of Commerce

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Will Forgrave City of Jackson

2 CHAMBER NEWS JULY/AUG./SEPT. 2017 JACKSONCHAMBER.ORG

Thank you to Rick Brenner, President of Michigan International Speedway, for speaking at our latest luncheon. It was great to hear about your goals and the future of the Speedway.

Congrats to the 17 graduates for our 2017 Leadership Jackson class. The individuals have shown a continued dedication to their business and the Jackson community. We look forward to seeing what this group does in the future. Thank You, to our graduation sponsor, Spring Arbor University.

With a crowd of nearly 300 from SEVEN different Chambers, you missed out if you were not at our last Off the Clock. Thank You to MIS for hosting in the Champions Club and to CP Federal Credit Union, as our title sponsor!

If you like butterflies you must visit the new Butterfly House at Summit Landscape and Garden Center on Weatherwax Rd. When it's fully stocked it will hold over 2000 butterflies. Also, Summit is your one stop shop for your landscaping needs.

Congratulations to R.W. Mercer Company for taking home the Chamber Cup at this year’s Annual Chamber Golf Outing with a 19 under Par. Thank You to our sponsors The Craft Agency and Daniel L. Jacob & Co, along with many others.

Thank You to State Representative Julie Alexander from the 64th District for joining us and sharing what she is working on in her first term as Rep. We are always excited to see conversation between our elected officials and our members.

T H E C H A M B E R I N A C T I O N

Please RSVP!

The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce is active in bringing its members networking events (Off The Clock, Speed Networking), educational events (Economic Luncheons, Leadership Jackson Classes), and promotional events (Good Morning! Greater Jackson, Ribbon Cuttings/Groundbreakings). Please see our Calendar (pages 8-9) to save future dates on your calendar!

We welcome all Chamber members to join us at our events! If you do plan to attend, please RSVP (517-782-8221) in advance to allow us to plan for food and other provisions accordingly. Thank You!

BOARDOFDIRECTORSKyle Hockley | Picture This...Jackson Mike England | England Family Agency - Farm Bureau Freddie Dancy | Dancy’s Fancy Butter Paul Buchholz | Lloyd Ganton Retirement Centers Cathy Reynolds | Consumers Energy - Downtown Tim Rogers | The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Inc. Ted Christoff | Christoff & Sons Floor Covering Inc. Sandy Maes | Board of Governors Dr. Michelle Shields | Jackson College Mike Overton | Jackson County Patrick Burtch | City of Jackson Jeffrey Anderson | Anderson & Makulski, PC Jim Coutu | Michigan Works! Southeast Sue Goldsen | Board of Governors Jamie McKibbin | Jackson’s Hit Music Station - K105.3 Monica M Moser | Jackson Community Foundation Dave Page Jr. CPA | Rehmann Ryan Smithson | Baker College of Jackson Tabitha Williams | Comfort Inn & Suites Anita Maria Quillen | Diversified Engineering & Plastics LLC Linda Schaub | Spring Arbor University Doug Backinger | Caster Concepts Neil Fernandes | Rise Above/Notch 8

BOARDOFGOVERNORSMike Jones | Michigan Works! Southeast Robert Michaels | RjM John Crist | C P Federal Credit Union Sandy Maes | Henry Ford Allegiance Health Linda Furgason | Avis Rent A Car Steven Patch | Lally Group, CPA’s Teri Ogg | Manpower Inc Philip M. Moilanen | Marcoux, Allen, Bower, Nichols & Kendall, P.C. Dr. Daniel J. Phelan | Jackson College Sue Goldsen | Jackson’s Hit Music Station Ron Griffith | Spring Arbor University

CHAMBERSTAFFPRESIDENT/CEOMindy Bradish-Orta | [email protected] OPERATING OFFICER Mary Schuessler | [email protected] LIAISON Kelly Sharrer | [email protected] EVENTS DIRECTOR Matt Swartzlander | [email protected] DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Patrick O’Dowd | [email protected] ST IMPRESSIONS DIRECTOR Sarah Lyman | [email protected]

EXECUTIVECOMMITTEECHAIR: Josh Burgett | State of MichiganVICE CHAIR: Ted Christoff | Christoff & Sons Floor Covering Inc.PAST CHAIR: Sarah Ermatinger | CP Federal Credit UnionTREASURER: Carolyn Matteson | Creative PromotionsSECRETARY: Bob Moore | Pentar StampingAT-LARGE: Dan Machnik | Willis & Machnik Financial Services Jamie McKibbin | Jackson’s Hit Music Station- k105.3 Karen Richard | Culver’s Restaurant

BOARDOFDIRECTORSKyle Hockley | Picture This...Jackson Mike England | England Family Agency - Farm Bureau Freddie Dancy | Dancy’s Fancy Butter Paul Buchholz | Lloyd Ganton Retirement Centers Cathy Reynolds | Consumers Energy - Downtown Tim Rogers | The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Inc. Ted Christoff | Christoff & Sons Floor Covering Inc. Sandy Maes | Board of Governors Dr. Michelle Shields | Jackson College Mike Overton | Jackson County Patrick Burtch | City of Jackson Jeffrey Anderson | Anderson & Makulski, PC Jim Coutu | Michigan Works! Southeast Sue Goldsen | Board of Governors Jamie McKibbin | Jackson’s Hit Music Station - K105.3 Monica M Moser | Jackson Community Foundation Dave Page Jr. CPA | Rehmann Ryan Smithson | Baker College of Jackson Tabitha Williams | Comfort Inn & Suites Anita Maria Quillen | Diversified Engineering & Plastics LLC Linda Schaub | Spring Arbor University Doug Backinger | Caster Concepts Neil Fernandes | Rise Above/Notch 8

BOARDOFGOVERNORSMike Jones | Michigan Works! Southeast Robert Michaels | RjM John Crist | C P Federal Credit Union Sandy Maes | Henry Ford Allegiance Health Linda Furgason | Avis Rent A Car Steven Patch | Lally Group, CPA’s Teri Ogg | Manpower Inc Philip M. Moilanen | Marcoux, Allen, Bower, Nichols & Kendall, P.C. Dr. Daniel J. Phelan | Jackson College Sue Goldsen | Jackson’s Hit Music Station Ron Griffith | Spring Arbor University

JACKSONCHAMBER.ORG JULY/AUG./SEPT. 2017 CHAMBER NEWS 3

Left to Right: Patrick O'Dowd, Kelly Sharrer, Matt Swartzlander, Mindy Bradish-Orta and Mary Schuessler

We had a great time at the Ribbon Cutting for the Grand Opening of the new office space for two great Chamber members. Advertising Solutions Today! and Generations Financial Group have their new offices at 977 Airport Rd. Stop by and see them today!

ADVERTISERSINDEXSpecialty Eye Institute .................................................................................................................................................Page 1 Experience Jackson ......................................................................................................................................................Jackson County Chamber of Commerce ........................................................................................................Page 5Accident Fund .................................................................................................................................................................Page 6Lloyd Ganton Retirement Centers ......................................................................................................................Page 8Jackson College ..............................................................................................................................................................Page 9RjM .......................................................................................................................................................................................Page 9Lally .......................................................................................................................................................................................Page 10Comerica ...........................................................................................................................................................................Page 10LJ Ross .................................................................................................................................................................................Page 11Aspen Heating & Air Conditioning ....................................................................................................................Page 11Ann Arbor State Bank .................................................................................................................................................Page 12Lammers Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc....................................................................................................Page 13Socio .....................................................................................................................................................................................Page 15Walton Insurance Group...........................................................................................................................................Page 15Comtronics .......................................................................................................................................................................Page 16CP Federal Credit Union ..........................................................................................................................................Page 16

Graphic Design by RjM | Printing and Mailing by LTi | Editor: Kelly Sharrer

SHARE YOURSTORY OF JACKSON

Jackson Blues Festival

#JacksonMI

Downtown Jackson Cruise In

Hot Air Jubilee

Jackson has a lot of stories to tell, and we are collecting them to share with everyone. See for

yourself, check out what's going on and tell your own story at WelcometoJacksonMI.com.

LIFE IS WHAT YOUMAKE IT IN JACKSON.

WelcometoJacksonMI.com

2017 Chamber Board of Directors


WELCOMENew Members

THANK YOURenewing Members1-5 YEARSNorth-Ply Contracting Co.

Arbor Hills Golf Club

Premier Eyecare of Jackson

Thome PACE - United Methodist Retirement Communities

Colonial Transportation LLC

The Dirty Bird

Best-One Tire & Service of Central Michigan

LiveSpans... a community service

Rise Above

Paragon Charter Academy3750 McCain Road Jackson, MI 49201(517) 750-9500Benjamin KrieschSchools & Colleges

Malachi Printing1315 Page Ave. Jackson, MI 49203 (517) 395-4813Derek FankhauserEmbroidery & Screen Printing

Summit Heights Dental Care2021 W. Michigan Ave. Jackson, MI 49202(517) 787-1380Cassie LaGowDentists/Dental Labs/ Oral Surgery

MDK Recycling LLC

Alpha Coney Island

Klavon’s Pizzeria & Pub - Vandercook

Breakfast Rotary Club of Jackson

Paul Bengel Mechanical Contractors

AdviCoach of Mid-Michigan

Tamrox Automotive

6-10 YEARSReynolds Management, Inc.

pitch.Me3204 Wildwood Ave. Jackson, MI 49202(517) 962-8079Stuart KailSoftware Consulting

Edward Jones Investments - Kelly Langley2002 Spring Arbor Rd., Suite A Jackson, MI 49283(517) 787-0828Kelly LangleyFinancial Planning / Investment Management / Insurance

Action Packaging - Jackson LLC2400 E. High St. Jackson, MI 49203(517)788-9800Eric StepnitzPackaging

Strouss Construction LLC

Jackson Orthopedic Specialists, PLLC

Indian Trails, Inc.

Midtown Association

Pinson Urology and Continence Center P.C.

11-15 YEARSGranger

F & H Manufacturing Co., Inc.

Mid-Michigan Mechanical Contractors Association

Isselhardt Nissan2400 Seymour Rd. Jackson, MI 49201(517) 788-8300Tracy IsselhardtAutomobile Sales and Service

Jackson Auto Company2111 Bondsteel Dr. Jackson, MI 49202(517) 796-8000Don HuffAutomobile Sales and Service

ORS Foot, Ankle, & Running Center 2797 Spring Arbor Rd. Jackson, MI 49203(517) 962-4437Brandon KlumpPhysical Therapy

Bio Image Systems, Inc.

16-25 YEARSServiceMaster Absolute Home & Restoration Services

Trulife Inc.

Jackson Transportation Authority

Aspen Heating & Cooling, Inc.

Thinking Real Estate

Sam’s Club

Hadaway Cleaning & Restoration3005 Francis St. Jackson, MI 49203(517) 677-4054Doug HadawayIndustrial Service, Supply & Distributor

Earth’s Own Bath and Body 1850 W. Michigan Ave. Jackson, MI 49201(517) 677-4054Rochelle WittRetailer

Nerium International - Kathy Iocca4827 Stonewood Dr. Jackson, MI 49201(517) 262-7465Kathy IoccaIndividuals

Plating Systems & Technologies

26-35 YEARSSharon Calbert

Jackson Area Association of Realtors ( JAAR)

36-55 YEARSEstate & Pension Plans, Inc.

Marcoux, Allen, Bower, Nichols & Kendall, P.C.

Sharp Construction Company LLC4426 E. Berry Rd. Pleasant Lake, MI 49272(517) 769-6650Mike SharpConstruction Companies /General Contractors

Pearle Vision1736 W. Michigan Ave. Pleasant Lake, MI 49202(517) 789-7131Kristina BeckettOptometry

The Carroll Collection1907 N. Grovedale Ave. Jackson, MI 49203(517) 740-3000William DearyMuseums - Art & Historical

Jim Winter Auto Group

72 YEARSComerica Bank

79 YEARSConsumers Energy - Downtown

Superior Pool4200 Ann Arbor Rd. Jackson, MI 49202(517) 764-1695Sherry BoycePools & Spas / Sales & Service

New York Life Insurance Company3905 Harwich Ln. Jackson, MI 49201(517) 392-6712Gary PageauInsurance

St. John Catholic Cemetery403 E. South St. Jackson, MI 49203(517) 783-1728Jennifer MietelkaCemetery

RENEWING/NEW MEMBERS


NEW AT THE OFFICE

October 19thAllSkate Fun

Center

11:30am-1:00pmEconomic Luncheon with

Roger Curtis, DTED at Optimist Ice Arena

2:30pm-5:00pmSpeed Networking

5:00pm-7:00pmJAXPO After Hours

sponsored by Experience Jackson

1:00pm-7:00pmJAXPO Business to

Business Expo - Over 85 businesses present

517-782-8221JacksonChamber.org

1:00pm-1:30pmMeet & Greet with Luncheon Speaker

Roger Curtis at JAXPO

Repainting your house the same color it already was feels like a waste. It's a lot of effort

merely to keep things as they are.

But if you don't do it, time and entropy kick in and the house starts to fade.

The same can be said for 1,000 elements of your organization,

NEW AT THE OFFICE

By Seth Godin

Sarah Lyman First Impressions Director, Chamber of Commerce & Experience Jackson

H ello! My name is Sarah Lyman and I am the new First Impressions Director for the Chamber of Commerce and Experience Jackson. In 2011, I moved to Michigan from Southwest Florida to attend Spring Arbor University. In 2015,

I graduated with a bachelor's degree in communications. During my undergrad, I gained a spectrum of communication skills, but my focus was mainly broadcasting and professional writing. I have always enjoyed working with people and being a part of community events.

For the last six years I have been transforming into an advocate for Jackson. Originally, I came to this area just to pursue my degree, but Jackson has become my home. I have had wonderful opportunities in Jackson County and love living in the city. I am continually surprised at what Jackson has to offer to its visitors and residents. I can see Jackson’s growth and potential and I appreciate the people who have spent years putting forth effort to make Jackson a great place to live, work, and play. Stepping into this role, I am excited to assist the Jackson community in a hands-on way and establish relationships with its people and businesses.

The Unfairness and Wisdom OF PAINT

including your relationships with customers, staff, suppliers and technology. The way you approach your market, the skill you bring to your craft, the culture in your organization—it constantly needs another coat of paint.

Rust never sleeps.


Summer is a time when construction is in full swing and this summer will be no different

in our community. Jackson County is undergoing a positive transformation unlike we have seen in our lifetime. Cranes, orange barrels, and barricades are seemingly everywhere and no matter where you turn there are signs of renewal and opportunity. New hotels, space, restaurants, road projects, trails, and renovations to community service organizations all are underway this summer. These projects will provide significant economic impact to our community and make it an even better place to live, work, and play.

Many local business owners are investing in the future of Jackson County. Whether it be John Burtka with the Lofts on Louis, a mixed use development along with his redevelopment of the former Daryl’s/151 restaurant into a restaurant/mixed use development; Commonwealth Associates, Jackson Downtown Partners, or the Old Irish Mill project. They all promise to be great projects that will contribute significantly to Jackson’s economy.

Many projects start with hiring a local architect/engineer and/or local contractor to develop their projects. By choosing local construction partners, the economic impact becomes greater. In fact, the return on investment by hiring local construction partners returns money back to the community 7 times over.

There are many examples of locally driven projects that have had a local

Summer Is A Season Of OPP OR T UNI T Y

architect/engineer and or general contractor/construction manager who have managed their project. Some of the projects that have been recently completed or under construction are: The Consumers Innovation Center, Bert Walker Hall at Jackson College, Baker College Engineering Building, Jackson County Animal Shelter, CP Federal Square, Cascades Humane Society Surgical Suite Addition, Arbor Hills Golf Club, Boston’s Restaurant and Sports Bar, Crossroads Convenience Store #2, Richmond Brothers, Premier Eye Care of Jackson, and Lost Rail Museum.

Although the future of Jackson County looks bright, the construction industry, much like the manufacturing industry faces a talent shortage. With students choosing other more popular career fields, it has put pressure on the skilled trades industries to find enough talent to perform work that is in the pipeline, which could cut short our economic resurgence. Responding to this impending shortage, the Jackson Commercial Contractors Association is working with the Career Center, local school districts and others to help encourage students to consider a career in the Construction Industry.

The Jackson Commercial Contractors Association is a local organization dedicated to promoting the use of local contractors within Jackson County. To find a local contractor for your next project or for more information on the Jackson Commercial Contractors Association, call us at (517) 990-9600, or visit us on the web at www.jcca.biz.

By: Ryan Smithson – The Jackson Commercial Contractors Association

SEASON OF OPPORTUNIT Y


SEASON OF OPPORTUNIT Y


Jackson County Chamber of Commerce

To Register: Unless otherwise noted, R.S.V.P. for events to Kelly at [email protected] or 517-782-8221 (please have your credit card information handy when you call). All cancellations must be received with a 24-hour notice or no shows will be billed. Non-members are encouraged to attend no more than two networking events before joining. All Chamber events are posted online at www.JacksonChamber.org under Events.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 19Speed Networking Sponsoredby Comcast BusinessThe plan is simple: We bring Jackson’s professionals together to network (and have fun!). This is a unique way to meet people, generate new contacts and business leads in a structured environment - in one afternoon!

• WHERE: Jackson Symphony Orchestra ( 215 W. Michigan Ave)

• WHEN: 2:30pm-5:00pm

• COST: $15 for Chamber Members in advance; $25 at the door - RSVP’s a must

THURSDAY, AUG. 3PM Brew with the Board sponsored by ASKAll Chamber members are encouraged to attend Brew with the Board, sponsored by ASK, to meet our staff, and our Board of Directors. End your day with us, make new business connections and take advantage of this opportunity to share what your business offers with other members.

• WHERE: Chilango’s Cantina (501 Longfellow St.)

• WHEN: 4:30pm-6:00pm

• COST: FR EE to attend. Space is limited, so please RSVP

THURSDAY, AUG. 3Pints & PoliticsA natural component to the Chamber’s successful public policy advocacy program is an aggressive, well-funded, highly organized political action committee.

• WHERE: Chilango's Cantina (501 Longfellow Rd.)

• WHEN: 6:00pm-8:00pm

• COST: Minimum $50 suggested donation

TUESDAY, AUG. 22Good Morning! Greater JacksonAttend this live radio program with NewsTalk 970am/101.5fm that features five (5) members. Breakfast, networking and sharing from the Chamber’s membership.

• WHERE: Bella Notte Ristorante (137 W. Michigan Ave.)

• WHEN: 7:30am-8:30am

• COST: $10 for Chamber members in advance; $15 at the door (includes breakfast)

FRIDAY, SEPT. 15Legislative Rise & ShineJoin your Jackson County Chamber of Commerce for a hot breakfast courtesy of the great staff at West Ave. Bob Evans Restaurant to discuss your important business issues with your local, state and federal elected officials.

• WHERE: West Ave Bob Evans (1725 N. West Ave.)

• WHEN: 7:30am-8:30am

• COST: $20 for Chamber Members in advance; RSVP’s a must; member-only

MONDAY, SEPT. 18Economic LuncheonJoin us for the 2017 Candidate Forum featuring City of Jackson election debates for City

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• WHERE: Cascades Manor House (1970 Kibby Rd.)

• WHEN: 11:30am-1:00pm

• COST: $25 for Chamber members in advance; $30 at the door (includes lunch)

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 20Off The ClockJackson’s Premier Professional Networking Event, join other Chamber members to network in a fun and unique atmosphere. With food, entertainment, live radio remote, dessert, drink and business sponsors, you’ll not want to miss this.

• WHERE: ORS Fieldhouse (3055 Shirley Dr.)

• WHEN: 5:00pm-7:00pm

• COST: $5 for Chamber members; $10 for future Chamber members

TUESDAY, SEPT. 26Good Morning! Greater JacksonAttend this live radio program that features four (4) members and a Chamber Segment.

Sponsorships available.

• WHERE: Bella Notte Ristorante (137 W. Michigan Ave.)

• WHEN: 7:30am-8:30am

• COST: $10 for Chamber members in advance; $15 at the door (includes breakfast)

THURSDAY, OCT. 19JAXPOYour Jackson Business 2 Business Expo is back and better than ever! Join us for the

Hillsdale | Jackson | Lenawee www.jccmi.edu

FALL CLASSES BEGIN SEPT. 5REGISTER NOW.

11:30am Economic Luncheon at Optimist before heading over to the start of JAXPO at 1pm. And if that isnt enough, join us for Speed Networking at 2:30pm and JAXPO after Hours at 5pm.

• WHERE: AllSkate Fun Center/Optimist Ice Arena

• WHEN: 11:30am-7:00pm

• COST: JA XPO tickets available at JacksonChamber.org

CALENDAR


It’s no secret that Jackson County has an extremely talented workforce. We are known for our collaboration

and willingness to think outside of the box to create best practices that are replicated across the State. Also, it’s no secret that the State of Michigan and yes, Jackson County currently have a talent shortage and a talent gap. So how do we solve these problems?

Through Workforce Development Initiatives, Michigan Works! Southeast (MWSE!) Business Team partners with The Talent Investment Agency to promote a demand-driven system that anticipates and responds to employer needs. To accomplish said goals MWSE! collaborates with Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise Group, Small Business Development Center, Jackson College and the Jackson Area Manufacturing Association ( JAMA) to assist employers in hiring, training and retaining their workforce.

These services are provided through State and Federal grants that the MWSE! Business Team facilitates. As of April 2017, $95,000 in Incumbent Worker Training and $20,000 in new hire On the Job Training have been awarded to 14 local employers. 7 additional companies were awarded a total of $873,500 from the Skilled Trades Training Fund (STTF) both of which resulted in 345 Jackson County residents earning industry recognized credentials, or obtained new employment because of these funding streams.

With an unemployment rate at its lowest in 16 years (5.1%), employers have turned to strategies new and old to secure their workforce. Growing your own talent is a strategy that employers are using when it comes to USDOL Registered Apprenticeships. Apprenticeships have been on the rise over the past 3 years in the manufacturing sectors. We are working to increase non-traditional apprenticeships in Healthcare, IT

and Energy. The Jackson Area Career Center has created the Jackson Area College and Career Connection ( JAC3) Early/Middle College (E/MC) to encourage students to take STEM classes that follow career pathways to in-demand occupations in the county. All of these initiatives are focused on growing and sustaining our local workforce.

Andrew Carnegie once said, “Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision, the ability to direct individual accomplishments towards organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.” The Jackson County Chamber, Enterprise Group, Michigan Works! Southeast and all of our partners work diligently to create a community which fosters and sustains a strong, diverse economy where people can live, work and prosper. Uncommon results from common people with incredible commitment, that is Jackson.

MICHIGAN WORKS

Michigan Work s!S O U T H E A S T

By: Jim Coutu – Business Services Manager, Michigan Works! Southeast


Now is the time to buy and sell real estate in the Jackson area market! We are back to

post recession numbers if not better. The average residential sale price in the Jackson area is currently at $136,579 compared to $127,555 just a year ago, or an increase of 7%. The number of residential homes sold through April 30, 2017 is up 5% from one year ago.

Listing inventory is another story. If you’re looking to sell your home, now is the time. We are experiencing a very low inventory of homes on the market. The number of new listings compared to a year ago is down 8%. Interest rates are still low so there are plenty of qualified, pre-approved buyers ready to buy, but can’t find a home. We are experiencing many multiple offer, low days on the market situations which can be frustrating to buyers. They may have to make offers on three to four

properties before they get an accepted offer. It is a seller’s market at this point with many homes selling above list price.

Another component of the market is the sale of vacant land. Vacant land parcel sales are up dramatically by 51% compared to April 2016. This hopefully will mean more new home starts which could mean an increase in the housing stock available for sale in the near future.

Now is a great time to buy or sell your home in the Jackson area. Be sure to use a REALTOR® committed to abiding by the National Association of REALTORS Code of Ethics. Visit www.JacksonMIHomes.com for an up-to-date, real time property search of homes for sale in the Jackson area and to find a REALTOR®.

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Jackson County is experiencing growth across all business sectors. Thanks to the health of our area

businesses there are nearly 71,000 people employed in Jackson County. The County unemployment rate at the end of March was 4.4%. EG figures show that since January of 2016, forty six Jackson County companies have invested over $173 million and committed to create 873 new jobs, and retain 567 jobs*.

Two of the more notable development projects in the past couple of months include Jackson Automatic Sprinkler and America’s Home Preferred Warranty.

Jackson Automatic Sprinkler is moving to the former JANX facility in Parma. The Jackson County Brownfield Authority used $29,000 in U.S. EPA Assessment Grant funding to assist their relocation from a building in Spring Arbor they now share with D&H Fire Suppression, Cascade Sprinkler Inspection and Fire Fabrication & Supply. Their relocation will allow Fire Fabrication to grow their employment and better serve their customers. Over $44.5 million in new investment in Jackson County came from brownfield projects since January of 2016.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Economic Development U P DAT E

ECONOMICDEVELOPMENT

Up d a t e

By: Tim Rogers, The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Inc.


America’s Preferred Home Warranty (APHW) is expanding into a much larger facility in Leoni Township. Within the next five years, they plan to employ 150 at the new office, with total investment exceeding $4 Million. They were recently named one of Michigan’s 50 companies to watch, according to Michigan Celebrates Small Business. APHW is the only Jackson company to make the list in the past five years.

The EG is working closely with County and Township officials to address the need for shovel ready industrial property. EG staff hosted investors including County Commissioners and Township Supervisors, on a site tour in March. There was good conversation about the development challenges facing Jackson County among the participants. The EG, along with our collaborative

partners, are working to develop an action plan to identify and prepare select sites in the County for future industrial development.

Workforce issues remain the top concern among businesses in Jackson County. A number of organizations continue to partner in an effort to meet the workforce needs of Jackson area businesses. The Enterprise Group, the Chamber, The College and Career Access Center, the ISD, Jackson College, Baker College, JAMA and Michigan Works Southeast are all working together to enhance worker skills and readiness through a variety of career exploration initiatives.

*The list of developments can be found in the following EG Imagine Jackson Investor Update.



EG and Community AccomplishmentsJanuary 1, 2016 through April 20, 2017

Development Projects Jobs Created Jobs Retained Investment

EG Attraction/Retention/Expansion Projects Vista Grande Villa 0 0 $1,400,000Airmaster Fan 0 21 not availableCMC Camshaft Machine Co. 0 45 $2,000,000Multimatic Inmet 80 0 not availableCrankshaft Machine Group 7 0 $1,500,000Lomar Machine & Tool Company 18 24 $2,500,000Petty Machine & Tool Inc. 5 46 $190,000Inosencio & Fisk 0 0 $1,000,000BDDA ‐ Home 2 Suites 20 0 $4,000,000Commonwealth Associates 150 150 $24,000,000BDDA ‐ Courtyard by Marriott Hotel 0 0 $4,400,000BDDA ‐ Townplace Suites Hotel 0 0 $3,500,000BDDA ‐ Boston's Pizza and Sports Bar Restaurant 0 0 $250,000CMF (Classic Metal Finishing) 15 90 $4,300,000America's Preferred Home Warranty 105 45 $4,000,000EG TOTALS: 400 421 $53,040,000

JCBRA PROJECTSThe Book Exchange 5 5 not availableCrown Industrial Services Inc. 85 0 $2,799,000Apollo Express 0 89 $200,000Ultimate Auto Repair 3 3 $200,000American Tooling Center, Inc. (ATC) 20 24 $800,000KDs Tire and Auto ‐ 504 S. West Ave. 3 0 $70,000Jackson County Fairgrounds 1 1 $28,000,000Smalley Construction Inc. 4 5 $786,240Jackson Gospel Hall Church 0 0 $750,000Old Irish Mill 88 0 $10,500,000Former Walton's Sawmill ‐ 2429 E. Michigan Ave. 5 0 $100,000Jackson Automatic Sprinkler 3 15 $310,000JCBRA TOTALS: 217 142 $44,515,240

PTAC PROJECTSPTAC ‐ 1st Quarter 2016 14 0 $694,785PTAC ‐ 2nd Quarter 2016 9 0 $495,019PTAC ‐ 3rd Quarter 2016 89 0 $4,443,351PTAC ‐ 4th Quarter 2016 51 0 $2,549,044PTAC ‐ 1st Quarter 2017 83 0 $4,141,173PTAC TOTALS*: 246 0 $12,323,372

EG TOTALS FOR REPORTING 863 563 $109,878,612863 x 1.2 = 1,035 Indirect Jobs created as a result.

DODGE DATA & ANALYTICS* ‐ Additional Jackson County Successes for 2016/2017Dollar General 0 0 $1,000,000East Jackson School District 0 0 $750,000Baker College of Jackson 10 4 $4,100,000Center for Family Health 0 0 $450,000Mag‐tec Casting Corporation 0 0 $225,000Kinder Morgan 0 0 $1,150,000Consumers Energy Headquarters 0 0 $123,541Elm Plating 0 0 $298,890Apartment Building/Grocery Store 1‐3 stories 0 0 $5,000,000The Glick Building Mixed‐Use Development ‐ Apartments/Condos 4+ 0 0 $5,000,0002017‐Flagstar Remodel 0 0 $300,0002017‐Walmart expansion 0 0 $6,0002017‐Potbelly Restaurant 0 0 $400,0002017‐Henry Ford Allegiance Health 0 0 $45,000,000DODGE DATA TOTALS: 10 4 $63,803,431

GRAND TOTAL FOR 2016/2017 873 567 $173,682,043The information contained in this report covers 01/01/2016 through 04/20/2017

*Dodge Data & Analytics is a construction subscription service The EG utilizes to ensure all known Jackson County Projects are reported. The EG is normally NOT involved in these projects but Staff reports to the MEDC on an annual basis for Jackson County successes for the Governer's Cup competition.

*The PTAC investment total reflects actual contract awards for the Quarter ‐ not individual companies. Job numbers are new and/or retained. The totals are not separated.


Economic Development U P DAT E


Imagine Jackson 2020 – January 1, 2016 through April 20, 2017New Jobs and Investment

217 246

400

TOTAL = 863 New Jobs

2016-2017 2018 2019 2020

Brownfield PTAC Business Ret./Exp./Attraction 2016-2017 Total

Brownfield Projects$44.5 Million Investment217 new jobs

2016-2017 TOTALS:$109.8 Million Investment863 new jobs

PTAC Awards$12.3 Million Investment246 new/retained jobs

Business Retention/ Expansion/Attraction$53 Million Investment 400 new jobs

Imagine Jackson 2020 Goal is 1,500 New Jobs!


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