Grant Helps Seward Township Firm Expand, Create Jobs

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today said the state will provide a $450,000 grant to Seward Township in unincorporated Winnebago County, enabling the township to drill a new well needed to meet water supply needs of its only manufacturer, Seward Screw Products, Inc.

"My administration has made a commitment to help communities build the infrastructure needed to help businesses locate and expand facilities and create new jobs," the Governor said. "That commitment is paying off in communities like Seward Township, where additional water supply capabilities will mean new opportunities for both the company and the community."

The grant, awarded through the Community Development Assistance Program (CDAP), administered by the Department of Commerce and Community Affairs (DCCA), will enable Seward Township to drill a new well on property donated by Seward Screw Products, Inc., and also install a turbine well pump, electric motor and back-up generator. The new well will meet flow standards required to operate an automatic sprinkler system to be installed in the company's expanded facility -- a system mandated by local building codes.

"The Community Development Assistance Program is a lifeline for small, rural communities with critical infrastructure needs," said DCCA Director Pam McDonough. "With this grant, Seward Township can ensure that its largest employer has the ability to grow and prosper in the community, creating opportunities today and in the future."

Seward Screw Products, Inc. is a family-owned manufacturer of screw machine products, producing custom precision-turned metal components such as hydraulic fittings, pneumatic cylinder components, and other parts for customers in the appliance control, power sports and electrical markets. Founded in 1954, the company currently has 81 employees, annual sales in excess of $10 million, and two manufacturing facilities totaling 52,000 square-feet. The expansion project will add approximately 27,000 square-feet to one of its existing facilities and is expected to result in at least 48 new jobs.

"We are excited and proud about this project and its ability to help Seward Screw Products, Inc. grow and benefit Seward Township," said company President Dale Falconer. "This water supply allows our company to expand efficiently and take advantage of new business opportunities. Without the involvement of Seward Township and DCCA, it would have been a significant financial burden that would have delayed the expansion project. This grant benefits the company, provides the township a source of water for the fire district, and adds tax revenue for the schools and surrounding area. All in all, this is a win-win situation."

Garelt S. Stahl, Seward Township Supervisor, agreed. "I am pleased to have this grant awarded to Seward Township for the expansion of Seward Screw Products, Inc. and a much-needed well for Seward/Pecatonica's fire district. We have a name brand manufacturer expanding and keeping the community safe with abundant water on hand."

Construction on the new well is expected to begin immediately.