By Dave Parker
Corey Wiktor, Executive Director of the County of Cattaraugus Industrial Development Agency (CCIDA) took some time withThe Villager to review a hugely successful 2022 which saw his agency support 17 new economic development projects with over $117 million of investment in Cattaraugus County. Corey (CW) and The Villager (V) looked back at the past year and what is on the horizon for 2023.
TV: What would you say are the most significant successes for 2022?
CW: The combination of the Great Lakes Cheese in Franklinville and Cimolai-HY in Olean moving rapidly from application to approval to seeing actual progress with shovels in the dirt. It’s a great testament to the commitment from the CCIDA Board, County Legislature, local leaders, and the companies involved. These two projects are forecasted to bring in over $800M in economic benefits to local communities. For Cimolai-HY, this project will offset many of the lost positions from the Siemens plant closure, and for Great Lake Cheese, not only were over 200 current jobs retained from the current Cuba location but nearly 200 additional jobs are forecasted.
TV: What were the most significant challenges faced by the CCIDA over the last year?
CW: Workforce development is the primary challenge. Many companies are attracted to our area but the skills and availability of the workforce are a gap that needs to be addressed. The CCIDA is partnering with Saint Bonaventure University, Jamestown Community College, local workforce development agencies, BOCES, and others to develop a workforce that can meet the needs of potential employers.
TV: Are there any individuals or organizations who deserve credit for making 2022 so successful?
CW: Well, I always need to give credit to the CCIDA Board, not just because they’re my boss, but because they were instrumental in making these projects happen. Also, the Cattaraugus County Legislature has gone above and beyond to support economic development efforts. The Legislature was key to ensuring additional funding to finalize the Cimolai-HY project.
TV: What project sticks out as being under the radar and the community needs to know about?
CW: Ellicottville Greens was an application approved in July that supported their $800 thousand investment in the Ellicottville area for containerized farming. This startup also received $700 thousand recently from the Laine Business Accelerator. I’m excited for them as they have a unique franchise model and take an environmentally conscious approach to food growing. They just seem to fit well with the vibe of Ellicottville and will be a company to watch.
TV: Were there any surprise projects that came out of the blue?
CW: In December, Ellicott Development Corporation was approved for a project to build two new high-end apartment complexes in Olean and Allegany. The Olean location will have 44 units and Allegany will have 14 units. This is a huge benefit to the community which needs affordable housing to attract and retain young professionals, professors, and others who want housing that is low maintenance and walkable to area amenities. This $14 million investment is telling that there is a demand in the Olean/Allegany community.
TV: For 2023, what upcoming projects or applications have the potential for the biggest impact on the County?
CW: The local manufacturing, food production, and brewing capabilities are strong to support additional investment this year. Also, tourism is expected to grow with Ellicottville as the epicenter for Cattaraugus County tourism. Ellicottville has become more than a town and village, it’s a brand that will radiate tourism opportunities to surrounding communities.
We’re also in the initial stages of discussing a 200,00 square foot fulfillment center in Olean for a major international retailer. This location is a prime location for the retailer to capitalize on the access to I-86 and the ability to service their northeast market. Fingers crossed that this opportunity comes to pass.
TV: Are there any looming challenges that the CCIDA is watching out for?
CW: There are definitely some unknowns with the macroeconomic variables and the rising cost of doing business but the feel is much different and more positive than the dark days of 2008 and 2009. Companies are still looking to invest and knock-on-wood will continue to invest in our communities.
One area of particular concern is the State’s evolving energy policies that will require conversion to all-electric sources by 2030. This requirement will cause a large jump in energy prices, huge conversion costs to existing businesses, and companies planning for long-term investments will be less likely to choose NY when the cost of doing business will be lower elsewhere. We’re working with the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, local government officials, and others to make sure the State is aware of the potential impact on economic investments. Business leaders need to have a seat at the table with the State for changes to energy policy.
To learn more about the CCIDA and its economic development projects, visit their website at https://cattcoida.com.