"FT Precision had considered locating its operation elsewhere, but when the Knox County Area Development Foundation helped rezone the land for industrial use, supplied the necessary infrastructure, and worked with the state for machinery and employment tax credits, the deal was closed," Heine says.

Following FT Precision's initial investment of $36 million in 1996, the company is already undergoing a 36,000 square foot, $27 million expansion.

Providing workers for expanding companies is not a problem. Currently, the county has a 4 percent unemployment rate while neighboring counties have higher rates.

"People don't hesitate to drive the distance for jobs," he says.

Diversity of Education
Knox County is fortunate in that it is home to Mt. Vernon Nazarene College and Kenyon College in Gambier.

"Mt. Vernon Nazarene College, a conservative college tied to its faith, has a tremendous outreach to the community," Heine says. "The college tends to draw its students from Ohio, Pennsylvania and Indiana. Kenyon, on the other hand, is one of the country's premiere liberal arts colleges, attracting students from all over the world."

Both colleges offer internships to their students with local businesses.

Knox County's Career Center offers an education program customized to meet corporate needs.

"The center was instrumental in hiring employees for Owens Corning when they located here, and has worked with numerous companies, tailoring specific training for them," Heine says.

The bottom line for economic development in Knox County is to stay clear of out-of-control growth. Knox County has over 300 acres available for industrial use.

"We want businesses, but also want to retain our lifestyle," Heine says. "Our lifestyle is what we are selling."