Skyline Champion, the newest company to open their doors in Navasota, is seeking a tax abatement from the county.
At last week’s Commissioner;’s Court meeting, Executive Director of the Chamber Johnny McNally says the application mentions an abatement of approximately $70,000 in taxes.
“They have already made the purchase of the building for about $4.5 million. They are looking to make $5.5 million in improvements in the property, $2 million in the building/parking, and another $3.5 million in equipment and other improvements,” said McNally. “They intend to bring 275 jobs to the factory when it is fully operational.”
He added 25% of those jobs would be hires within Grimes County. Skyline has also discussed additional tax relief with the City of Navasota.
Also requested by Skyline was an amendment to an existing 381 Agreement, which County Attorney Jon C. Fultz differentiated from a tax abatement.
“”For clarity, the 381 is the entity pays their taxes, then gets a reimbursement,” Fultz said.
After about 20 minutes discussion, the Commissioners decided they need to review the County abatement policy, combine it with the 381 agreement, and review Skyline’s application.
The committee will consist of County Judge Joe Fauth, the Commissioner whose precinct the project falls in, plus representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, and Navasota Economic Development Corporation. Also added were resident Bob Leiber and County Auditor Jessi Murphy.