West Fraser Sawmill Plans Multi-Million Dollar Expansion

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): West Fraser lumber and sawmill in McDavid has plans for a multi-million dollar expansion that will also create dozens of new jobs.

To support their investment, Escambia County commissioners are being asked to support a tax break for the Canada-based sawmill company.

The issue is on the agenda for Thursday’s commission meeting. The board is being asked to adopt a resolution showing their support for an ordinance that would allow an Economic Development Ad Valorem Tax Exemption for West Fraser for up to 10 years.

The company wants to expand its operation in Escambia County and pour about $62 million in construction and new equipment at the McDavid sawmill. The expansion would also create 30 new jobs with an average salary of $49, 920.

Escambia county administrator, Wes Moreno, says county support is important to bring this competitive economic development project to the area.

“I think it’s great news for Escambia County,” said Moreno. “Anytime you can bring economic development and jobs, good-paying jobs, especially in an area that has struggled with low-income, it’s a great boost for that area and we’re absolutely happy to have it.”

According to an evaluation by economic development agency FloridaWest, the project scored 6 out of 13 possible points, equating to a 46.15% as the suggested EDATE exemption. The evaluation estimates the project "will generate over $14.6 million in sales and output annually within Escambia County."

West Fraser is a wood products company that primarily produces lumber, as well as plywood and engineered wood products, pulp, newsprint, wood chips and other products.

The McDavid sawmill processes southern yellow pine and has several lumber drying kilns. Moreno says the company plans to add at least one one. The Canadian company says it has 34 sawmills in British Columbia, Alberta and the Southern United States.  

The Escambia Board of Commissioners have its next meeting Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at the Ernie Lee Magaha Government Building at 221 Palafox Place.  

Courtesy: www.pnj.com