Springville expects economic benefits from new industrial park

By Terry Schrimscher

Springville, Alabama – The Springville City Council met for its first regular meeting of the month on Monday, August 19. Much of the discussion took place in the work session prior to the regular meeting, where council members heard an update from Don Smith of the St. Clair County Economic Development Council.

“Since we last spoke, we have purchased the property, 200 and about 50 acres. We are at a point where we need to start developing it so it is marketable,” Smith said. “Our intention is to save as much local money as possible for the development of the park. We are hoping to get outside funding so you can use your local funds for the things that are important to this council.”

Smith outlined a plan to apply for grants and recruit companies that best fit the park concept.

“Our philosophy is to attract high-quality companies with advanced technology that can then grow with the community,” Smith said.

Last October, the Springville City Council approved a cooperative agreement with St. Clair County to purchase and develop Riley Farm Commerce Park, the county’s first rail-connected commercial park. The property is located near the WalMart interchange on I-59.

The Springville-St. Clair County Partnership received $2.1 million from the SEEDS grant to help purchase the property, which is expected to bring up to 1,500 jobs to the area when completed. SEEDS is an acronym for Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy Act (SEEDS), which was passed by the Legislature last year as part of the governor’s economic development “game plan” package.

“The joy of seeing this project come to fruition is palpable, as the positive impacts will be felt for generations to come,” said Mayor Dave Thomas. “The goal of this administration, shared by our county and state leaders, is to realize our full potential. Springville is once again leading by example – the embodiment of this shining city on a hill.”

In other matters, the Council approved:

• Postponement of the date for the first September meeting due to Labor Day
• Approved an ordinance changing the boundaries of Springville’s police jurisdiction
• Approval of a letter of intent to participate in the St. Clair County Solid Waste Management Plan
• $3,000 approved for the St. Clair County ARC.
• $52,500 was approved to purchase modular buildings to serve as temporary restrooms at city athletic fields, with the stipulation that the city replace them to comply with zoning requirements.

Due to the Labor Day holiday, the next Springville City Council meeting will be Monday, September 9th at 6:00 p.m., with a pre-meeting work session at 5:30 p.m.