KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A major local employer is about to grow again in the city of Kalamazoo, but they’re also asking for a tax exemption to help with the process.
Zoetis, the largest global animal health company, is planning to spend over $94 million dollars for a 41,000-square foot addition to their manufacturing facility on East Kilgore Road just north of the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport.
Zoetis also has facilities on Portage Street in downtown Kalamazoo and on North 28th Street near Richland. According to city documents, Zoetis is the world’s largest producer of medicine and vaccinations for pets and livestock. The company directly markets their products in approximately 45 different countries around the world.
A presentation about the expansion project was given at the Kalamazoo City Commission meeting on Monday.
Director Of Engineering at Zoetis Mark Callahan says they will be be able to add production lines for three new products, creating about 22 new full-time jobs.
The animal healthcare firm already employs over 1,000 people in Kalamazoo County. “Zoetis has invested over the last five years here in Kalamazoo nearly $180 million dollars through plant expansions, equipment improvements, infrastructure upgrades,” Callahan explained.
Now, Zoetis is asking for a nearly $48-million dollar PA 198 Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption Certificate for 12 years. A public hearing is set for October 19th to consider the request.
Construction has already begun and they hope to be in production by this time next year.
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