~ To Expand in Lamar County, Texas ~
Paris, Texas — The Paris Economic Development Corporation has completed the execution of a contract for $120,000 in job creation incentives and $40,000 in capital investment incentives for the expansion of Metro Gate & Manufacturing Company, Inc.
“It was a pleasure working with the PEDC staff and Board. They really listened to what our needs were as well as understanding the opportunities in front of us,” stated Richard Sharrock, President of Metro Gate. “The jobs we are creating will require skilled workers that will help bolster our production and meet the growing demand for our products.”
Metro Gate recently reached a critical juncture in their operation, where the growing demands for their products required strengthening production capabilities. Expansion plans include increasing their physical footprint by 20,000 square feet and creating an additional 40 new jobs to Lamar County.
Josh Bray, PEDC Chairman stated, “The Sharrock’s and Metro Gate are a great example of the vision that this PEDC board has for the future of development in Lamar County. We hope to continue to support the growth of regional companies with quality jobs and benefits.”
To support the company’s growth, the terms of the PEDC offer included $120,000 for 40 new jobs over the course of a 5-year term, as well as a $40,000 incentive to assist with the acquisition of new machinery and equipment. Additionally, the average wage of the employees at Metro Gate must be at least $18 per hour, reflecting the commitment of Metro Gate to provide quality jobs to Lamar County.
“Prioritizing business retention and expansion efforts is arguably the most important thing an economic development organization can do to support the community’s economic climate,” stated Maureen Hammond, Executive Director of the PEDC. “Metro Gate is a valuable member of the manufacturing community and we are excited for the opportunity to participate in their growth. We hope that this agreement signifies that we are committed to supporting quality jobs for our citizens and growth opportunities of our existing industry.”
Metro Gate has been a family owned and operated business since it began in 1982. The company produces a wide variety of products for agricultural and rodeo applications, such as gates, pens, roping chutes, stalls, fencing, feeders and more. Metro Gate products are distributed nationwide to companies like Atwood’s, Buttery, Oncor, and K&K.
For more information, please contact Maureen Hammond at the PEDC at (903) 784-6964 or mhammond@paristexasusa.com.
Paris Economic Development Corporation
1125 Bonham Street
Paris, Texas 75460
(903) 784-6964
parisedc@paristexasusa.com
