Community Development Director Joseph Graves said some industries in Union have downsized and cut jobs, contributing to the countywide unemployment rate of 12.5 percent. However, he attributes most that figure to the decline of the auto industry.

"Several industries have downsized a bit locally and Franklin County does have an unemployment rate of 12.5 percent, which is the highest in the St. Louis metro area," said Graves. "I believe a lot has to do with Chrysler (plant closing) and suppliers."

He added that there has not been a decline in sales tax at Union businesses, but other city costs have skyrocketed creating new burdens for the city.

"As far as revenue goes, retail sales tax are flat right now (compared to last year) - which is much better than a decrease but with a cost of health care and such increase it does impact the city," said Graves.

Looking at Union?

Graves noted that commercial inquiries continue at a "steady, nice consistent level."

"Commercial industries are looking a little further out," said Graves. "They are not looking at buying property and developing within next month but in the long term of like in two to three years and hopefully by that time the economy will be in a better state."

He added that he continues to meet with potential industries to show them what Union has to offer.

"Larger retailers have time lines and they only open one or two stores a year. We have to get on that timeline," said Graves. "I show them why they should be located in the community. That's what I try to do when I attend conventions  - to get retailers to look at the community more in depth."

Graves said he has not changed strategies while recruiting businesses but maintains that his highest priority is catering to businesses already established in Union.

"About 70 percent of all new jobs come from existing industries, so I try to have a good relationship with them and assist them first," said Graves. "With new industries, it is hard enough competing with the international marketplace  - industries come along few and far between.

"It's been said that when you land a new industry in town that's the sexy part of economic development," he added. "That's when politicians get their picture in the paper. It's very good but existing industry is my primary focus." Graves added that the city and Plaze Inc. officials are moving forward with the plans for the industry to locate in Union. The city entered into an agreement with Plaze that would give the manufacturer tax incentives to draw jobs into the city.

"I've been told the project continues to move forward," said Graves. "They are just trying to get all the I's dotted and T's crossed before moving forward with the project."

Plaze is expected to bring over 100 jobs to Union.