Gotion’s approval for a Renaissance Zone would help defray the cost of the factory, a development it says would create 2,350 jobs over the next decade. Designating the area as a Renaissance Zone would save Gotion an estimated $13 million in property taxes annually, according to the application.
Township and county leaders said the project would be pivotal for Big Rapids.
Randy Thelen, CEO of The Right Place, said in an emailed statement that he was encouraged by Monday’s “yes” vote.
“We are encouraged to receive support tonight from Green Charter Township, Big Rapids Charter Township and Mecosta County regarding the Renaissance Zone designation for Gotion’s multibillion-dollar investment in the area,” he said in the statement.
“As well, we applaud all our community partners who have invested time and resources to champion this effort. There are still numerous steps to be taken before this project becomes a certainty, but this is a terrific start toward positioning the region at the center of West Michigan’s growing mobility and EV sector.”