Explanation
BACKGROUND: The Columbus Department of Development is proposing to enter into a Jobs Growth Incentive Agreement with Middle West Spirits, LLC equal to twenty-five percent (25%) of the amount of personal income tax withheld on new employees to Columbus for a term of up to five (5) years. Middle West Spirits, LLC will invest a total of approximately $2,965,000 related to leasehold improvements, the acquisition of furniture and fixtures, machinery and equipment, stand-alone computers, the retention of 5 full-time permanent positions with an annual payroll of approximately $280,000 and the creation of 25 new full-time permanent positions with an new annual payroll of approximately $957,500.
Located in the historic Short North Arts District, Middle West Spirits, LLC is an established micro-distillery producing small batch craft spirits, vinegars, and syrups under the OYO brand (pronounced “oh-why-oh”). Middle West Spirits, LLC currently distributes its products in 14 states plus the District of Columbia. Prompted by an increase in demand for its lines of whiskey, vodka and bourbon, Middle West Spirits, LLC is proposing to relocate back office operations from 1230 Courtland Ave., Columbus, Ohio 43201 and lease, renovate, and equip approximately 23,000 square feet of existing office and warehouse space located at 470 E. Starr Ave., Columbus, Ohio 43201, in the nearby Milo-Grogan neighborhood, in order to expand distilling operations at their Short North location.
The expansion and renovation of the company’s existing Short North distilling and retail operations at 1230 Courtland Ave. will include a complete renovation of the structure - expected to add more than 40 feet of height to the 18 foot-high structure. The overhaul will include the installation of new higher-capacity distilling and grain handling equipment, construction of a full-service tasting room, bottle shop, and façade improvements. The Milo-Grogan site, 470 E. Starr Ave., will warehouse agin...
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