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Niagara County aims to bolster businesses

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Fri, Feb 26th 2016 07:15 pm

Wednesday workshop focuses on programs to help companies

By Christian W. Peck

Public Information Officer

Niagara County Public Information Office

Working closely with pro-business partners including the Niagara USA Chamber and the Greater Lockport Development Corp., the Niagara County Center for Economic Development will host a business workshop Wednesday at Lockport City Hall.

The workshop, one of three planned countywide this year, will run from 9:30-10:30 a.m. and focus on various programs available to business as well as opportunities for facilities siting and workforce training.

"We know the importance of providing information and tools to the private sector businesses that are generating jobs here in Niagara County, as well as those thinking about setting up shop here," said Niagara County Legislator Kathryn Lance, R-Wheatfield, who, as chairwoman of the legislature's economic development committee, was instrumental in setting up the workshop series. "We want business to know we're ready to be a committed partner and ally."

That's a message echoed by County Legislature Chairman Wm. Keith McNall, R-Lockport.

"We're working very closely with our partners in the chamber, the town of Lockport IDA, the GLDC and the Niagara County Community College Small Business Development Center to bring all of these different resources to one place, under one roof, at one time," he said. "This is one-stop shopping for our business leaders so they can consider the options available to them as they grow and expand."

The workshop will cover programs to lower electricity costs, on business loan and financing options, real property tax and sales tax incentives, land and buildings for sale or lease, and grants available for workforce expansion.

"As an accountant, I know that it's crucial that our businesses maximize their cost containment," said Legislator Will Collins, R-Lockport. "We want businesses to know about grants, about tax incentives, about ways to lower their costs, because we want businesses to succeed, to grow, and to create jobs."

Legislator Tony Nemi, R-Lockport, agreed.

"The most important thing we can do is create an environment that fosters economic growth and job creation," he said. "This workshop is part of that commitment."

Additional workshops are planned for May 4 at Niagara Falls City Hall and Sept. 7 at the North Tonawanda Municipal Building.

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