November 16, 2004

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TAFT ANNOUNCES GRANT FOR PIKE COUNTY COMPANY
State Assistance Will Help Create 70 Jobs for Ohioans

Columbus, OH -- Governor Bob Taft today announced that a $25,000 Business Development grant has been awarded to Superior Kraft Homes, LLC, located in Pike County. The grant, administered by the Ohio Department of Development (ODOD), was approved by the State Controlling Board, and is intended to assist in the growth and development of Ohio businesses and the creation and retention of jobs.

Superior Kraft Homes will purchase Randal Homes’ manufacturing operation, which includes a building and other assets for use in producing modular homes. According to State Development Director Bruce Johnson, it is anticipated that the $1.3 million project will be an economic multiplier for Pike County and Ohio’s Appalachian region and will create 70 jobs within the first three years of operation. Other state assistance that has been committed for this project includes a 55 percent Job Creation Tax Credit for a seven-year term and a $28,000 Ohio Investment in Training Program grant.

The Business Development Account is a grant program to assist companies and communities that are creating or retaining jobs with the necessary infrastructure improvements needed to ensure a project move forward.

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