A representative from a Lexington umbrella business organization says economic development extends beyond the Fayette County boundary.
Commerce Lexington’s Gina Greathouse says some businesses write off communities with less than a million people. She noted that’s why the pitch is made for the region. “So that gives us a little better footing in saying we’re going to be able to find the workforce for you,” said Greathouse.
Greathouse said it would be better to land a business client in Woodford or Madison Counties than lose it to Nashville. The Commerce Lexington Executive Vice President added Fayette County doesn’t have much in the way of existing manufacturing or warehouse space, but does have office space.
Some 200 acres situated near the interstate is part of the development plan. But, Council Member James Brown said job creation there will take some time. “It’s not shovel-ready. Once we take possession of it we’re going to have to put the infrastructure in and that’s a cost that we’re going to have to absorb,” said Brown.
Brown added he didn’t think that infrastructure costs at Coldstream could be passed on to future business interests. Council Member Richard Moloney maintained job creation is the best way to generate additional revenue for the city and not through a tax increase.
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