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TIP STRATEGIES - Theory In to Practice <br />Light Industrial & Assembly <br />Why does this sector matter? <br />While national trends suggest manufacturing job growth will remain flat, there is still value in <br />adding this sector to the EDG's target list. A healthy manufacturing sector contributes to the <br />local economic base and can provide a source of employment for entry-level workers and those <br />without advanced credentials. Competition for manufacturing jobs is fierce and the cost of <br />recruitment initiatives (in terms of marketing dollars, incentives, and infrastructure <br />improvements) can be significant. <br />Why is it a fit for Kittitas County? <br />Admittedly, the county faces some constraints with regard to the recruitment of manufacturing <br />operations. Kittitas is at a competitive disadvantage in comparison with neighboring counties in <br />terms of utility costs. According to local officials, industrial users in Kittitas County will pay <br />approximate ly $.06 per kWh of electricity. While nationally competitive, the rate is higher that <br />the $.01 per kWh paid in Grant County. For energy -intensive users (e.g., food, bulk chemicals, <br />refining, glass, cement, steel, and aluminum), the difference in cost is significant. Another major <br />constraint is the lack of a large pool of local workers who possess basic manufacturing skills <br />(e.g., welding, CNC machining, tool and dye making). <br />Nevertheless, EDG should engage in reasonable marketing and recruitment activities targeted at <br />out-of-state companies engaged light industrial and assembly. The county's highly desirable <br />quality of life, attractive scenery, and proximity to a major metropolitan area makes it a logical <br />destination for executives seeking to relocate a facility from a high-cost, high -stress <br />environment. <br />4.14 - Build on core industries. <br />Companies already established in the region should represent the first tier of economic <br />development opportunity. Existing state and regional clusters to consider include OEMs for <br />aviation/aerospace, alternative energy equipment, construction materials and equipment, or <br />agricultural equipment. <br />Exceptions to this rule are important, however. If the industries are contracting, or if they add <br />little value (through wages or capital investment), public support for them must be more <br />measured and more cautious <br />4.15 - Target specific characteristics <br />As with professional services, we recommend selecting specific companies using a series of <br />filters: <br />