As an owner of a manufacturing company, I am currently looking to locate a 120,000 square foot facility in the Pacific Northwest that would employ approximately 175 direct employees and 25 indirect employees. As an alternative, I have investigated the new Mill Creek Industrial Park being developed near the interchange of I-5 and Hwy 22.

Among the many things I look for when selecting a development site is the site’s proximity to goods and services. Employees need the ability to take care of banking, insurance, medical and other errands, plus have available a variety of eating alternatives during their lunch break. These goods and services are currently located too far away on Commercial Street or Lancaster Drive.

It is for this reason that I support the Hazel’s Hill annexation and the planned development that could occur on this site. This development will provide the mix of neighborhood commercial goods and services that will allow my employees to leave the facility and make it back before the end of their lunch break.

The Mill Creek Industrial Development appears to be a well thought out project; however, I cannot afford to have my employees traveling to other sections of the City of Salem during their lunch breaks. And, I am certain that other site location decision makers will base their location decisions on the same factors. As a result, I whole-heartedly recommend that the citizens of Salem approve the Hazel’s Hill annexation. A vote for annexation will help support the Mill Creek Industrial Development and create more jobs in the City.

(This information provided by Jerry Edwards,
Pres., Roadmaster Manufacturing)