After an extensive search, Vanair Manufacturing Inc., which is currently located in Michigan, will move to a new site and plans to construct a building twice as large in Michigan City, Ind.

The LaPorte County Council approved a request from Kokot Brothers Development LLC for an economic revitalization area and tax abatement to develop a 60,000 square foot building on a former farm on County Road 300 North in Coolspring Township, just south of Michigan City.

Ralph Kokot, owner and chief executive officer of Vanair Manufacturing, said he appreciates the economic incentives offered to move his company from Michigan to LaPorte County. He said the company plans to actively recruit new employees from LaPorte County.

"We will be looking for a myriad of employees, from professional engineers to assembly-line laborers … a cross-section of skill sets," Kokot said.

The economic revitalization area, and the tax abatement were approved on March 26th at the County Council meeting, Kokot said he plans to break ground sometime between mid-April and May 1. He said he has talked with three LaPorte County contractors about constructing the new building and expects to make a decision within a month.

Vanair Manufacturing has been at its present location on U.S. 12 just west of New Buffalo since it was founded in 1972. Kokot bought the company in 1997. He said the 44-employee company manufactures vehicle-mounted air compressors and its major market is utility companies.

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