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It's been said the ties that bind a community are intangible; things like unity, partnership and cooperation.
But sometimes those bonds are made of more real stuff - like plastic.
The APS Economic Development Department works with all of the Regional Economic Development Groups throughout the state and the Arizona Department of Commerce to attract quality new jobs and investment in our communities. In 2005, for example, APS assisted in 11 quality companies to relocate to Arizona, bringing a total of $128,000,000 of capital investment and more than 1,800 new jobs to this state.
But for APS, one of the most satisfying projects the company involved itself last year with was helping Republic Plastics, a manufacturer of plastic products, to locate in San Manuel.
Located northeast of Tucson, San Manuel was a mining community that lost its mine several years ago. The San Manuel Copper Mine employed several thousand employees, and was the economic force behind the community. When the mine left, there was virtually no industry level jobs in the community. In helping the Republic Plastic to move to San Manuel, APS was really helping the community invest in its future.
"It was truly satisfying assisting in the move," said David Bentler, head of APS' Economic Development department. "At APS, people are what matter. When we saw an opportunity to help bring in a quality company like Republic Plastic, we knew we had to act. We knew Republic Plastic would bring back vitality to this area. It brings the residents hope and brightens the outlook for the entire town."
Gino Inman Chairman and CFO of Republic Plastics agreed that while he was reticent at first, he agreed to move his company after meeting with APS officials and with the Arizona Department of Commerce.
Republic Plastics initially brought 50 jobs to San Manuel in late 2005," Bentler said. "They have been so successful with their employees and products (foam dinner plates) that they have already announced their intentions to expand their manufacturing capabilities in San Manuel and double their employment needs in 2006."
Republic Plastics took a risk to locate in San Manuel and is planting a seed to invite more industry to this community that could help sprout economic prosperity to the area, said Bentler.
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