October 4, 2007

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced a $400,000 grant to Ionia County for road improvements needed to support the expansion of Herbruck Poultry Ranch. The project is expected to create 40 new jobs with private investment of $12 million. The grant is being made available by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation with funds provided by the federal Community Development Block Grant program. An MEDC official presented a ceremonial check to Ionia County officials today.

“This new facility will enable an important area employer to continue to grow its business and create new jobs in Ionia County,” Granholm said. “The agriculture industry is vital to our economy, and we are proud to back this expansion.”

Operating in Michigan for the past 50 years, Herbruck is the largest producer of organic eggs in the U.S. The company is planning a new cage-free housing facility for 300,000 laying hens and in-line egg processing plant to be located on Grand River Ave. between Jordan Lake and Nash roads.

“The CDBG program is a valuable resource for communities looking to facilitate business development and job growth,” MEDC President and CEO James C. Epolito said. “I applaud Ionia County leaders for working together to help make this project a reality.”

The Ionia County Board of Commissioners, Ionia County Rural Task Force, Ionia County Road Commission and Berlin and Boston townships will combine to contribute more than $2.4 million to support the project.

“Our family business would not have grown successfully over the years without the support of the Ionia community and its leaders,” Executive Vice President Greg Herbruck said. “This gratitude also extends to our quality workforce most of which live in the area.”

“Herbruck Poultry Ranch highlights the diversity in Michigan's $60.1 billion agriculture industry and its potential for growth,” said Don Koivisto, Michigan Department of Agriculture director. “This grant helps connect Michigan consumers with locally grown products while helping create more agricultural jobs in our state.”

“The Ionia County Economic Alliance is very pleased that Herbruck chose to expand their operation in Ionia County,” ICEA Executive Director Diane Smith said. “Herbruck has been a growth-oriented employer and tax payer in the county for years. The support provided by the local government shows just how important this company is to all of us here in Ionia County.”

“This project is a great public-private partnership that will benefit the citizens of the County of Ionia,” Ionia County Board of Commissioners Chairman James L. Banks said.

The MEDC is able to award approximately $40 million in federal CDBG funds each year. There are 1,655 local governments within the state eligible to apply for these funds. Projects are approved contingent upon compliance with state and federal requirements.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation, a partnership between the state and local communities, promotes smart economic growth by developing strategies and providing services to create and retain good jobs and a high quality of life. For more information on MEDC initiatives and programs, visit the Web site at www.michiganadvantage.org.