Jeff Davis School Board supports tax breaks for Metalplate Galvanizing, repeals it for Lacassine rum manufacturer – American Press

JENNINGS – The Jeff Davis Parish School Board Thursday supported efforts by an electroplating factory to secure tax breaks for an expansion project near Jennings while another non-compliance exemption for a rum maker in Lacassine was lifted.

The Board of Directors unanimously voted to support Metalplate Galvanizing’s application under the State Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) for a $ 885,670 facility expansion. The program provides tax incentives for manufacturers who advocate jobs, payrolls, and increasing tax revenues.

“The main thing that the board liked was that they would have 28 new jobs with a $ 2 million salary, averaging $ 72,000 per job,” said Credeur. “And the jobs they create will be a variety of well-paying jobs that will have a positive impact on our region.”

Metalplate Galvanizing’s total annual exemption from all applicable tax jurisdictions, including the school board’s portion, is $ 41,541, according to the Jeff Davis Parish Assessor.

Plant Manager Jeff Mundy said the company is aiming for a 10-year tax break of $ 10,700 per year to offset the cost of expanding a finishing area for solar panel components that will be sold across the United States. The demand for the products is expected to increase over the next 10 years, he said.

The company also offers hot-dip galvanized materials for industrial operations and expansion projects.

Metalplate Galvanizing opened its 50,000 square foot facility in April 2016 on 80 acres off Farm Supply Road and US 90, west of Jennings.

The board also voted to request the state Department of Commerce and Industry to lift the 2020 ITEP exemption for Louisiana Spirits, which makes bayou rum at its Lacassine facility. The board also asked the company to pay taxes that were previously tax exempt for failing to meet their original exemption request, which required three jobs and a $ 90,000 payroll.

“They applied for a tax break from the state promising three jobs worth $ 30,000 each, but they broke the agreement,” Credeur said.

The tax break was used to offset the cost of a $ 4.5 million manufacturing process expansion that opened on South I-10 Frontage Road in Lacassine in 2013.

Credeur said the purpose of the tax exemption is to give companies tax breaks that can bring in more taxes and high-paying jobs to help boost the economy. The board believed that Louisiana Spirits’ request did not meet the requirements to provide ample jobs and a high salary bracket, it said.

Louisiana Spirits can appeal the decision of the board of directors.

Jeff Davis School Board supports tax breaks for Metalplate Galvanizing, repeals it for Lacassine rum manufacturer