A resolution to move forward with an industrial shell building in Batesville won city council approval on Monday.
Council unanimously approved the resolution that will allow city officials to move forward with financing and the construction phase with GM Development.
The agreement between the city and the developer is labeled as a private-public partnership, allowing city leaders the majority of control in the project, including which potential suitor could bring operations to Batesville.
The goal of constructing the vacant shell building is to put the city in a better position to attract companies that bring jobs.
Indiana Economic Development Corporation President Eric Doden and Batesville Economic Development Commission President Andy Saner joined the council meeting via Skype to address questions prior to the resolution vote.
In a letter addressed to Mayor Rick Fledderman, Doden stated:
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) is pleased to learn that the City of Batesville is exploring options to construct a shell building for future economic development. Available top-grade industrial inventory is vital in attracting new business and engaging interest from site selectors. Of the site searches that are conducted through the IEDC, sixty percent request an existing building with 75,000-100,000 square feet and 25’-35’ ceiling height. Shell buildings can help set your community apart and should allow to compete for more deals.
