A Kewanna-based business is poised to expand operations into Winamac, according to information shared with the Pulaski County Economic Development Board of Directors. Winamac Coil Spring is in the process of purchasing the former Chesapeake Recycling property south of Winamac on U.S. 35 and plans to move a production line from Fulton to Pulaski County. The move will initially create between nine and 12 jobs with the potential for significant sales and employment growth over the next decade. Winamac Coil Spring officials recently approached Pulaski County Economic Development Director Nathan P. Origer to ask about an upfront cash incentive from the county to offset some of the hefty front-end costs involved in the project. Origer’s board discussed the matter and agreed to recommend a forgivable loan of up to $150,000 guaranteed by a contract.

WCS is a leading manufacturer of compression, extension and torsion springs for a variety of customers and also offers wireforms. The company was founded in 1948 by Walter Pesaresi and is now run by second and third generation descendants.

The town of Winamac recently reviewed a quote regarding a new factory that’s looking to expand in Winamac and is in need of electric service. Town Manager Jim Conner explained the work should take place within the next few weeks – an “exciting” prospect, he said.

Winamac Coil Spring company is seeking electric service to expand in Winamac, and Conner said the quote came in around $74,815. Some of that, he said, will be the town’s expense, and the remaining portion will be covered by the company itself.

Conner said the cost is for a new transformer, as the current one isn’t large enough to serve the company’s estimated load. As a result, a new primary feed will also need to be installed, and a fee will be charged to connect existing service to the new transfer. Conner said the work itself should take roughly a week.