During a recent "Ask the Mayor" program on WSJD, Mayor Joe Judge said the city is still actively recruiting grocery retailers and recently met with several companies at a trade show earlier this year.
Judge said he attended a grocery industry trade show in February and spoke with multiple grocery store representatives about locating in Mount Carmel. While no company has committed to the community yet, he says the city continues to pursue opportunities.
To help attract new businesses, Judge said Mount Carmel offers incentives through both its Tax Increment Financing District and Enterprise Zone programs. He also addressed recent social media comments suggesting the city only provides financial assistance to outside businesses.
Judge said that is simply not true, explaining that any business owner can apply for TIF assistance by presenting a business case. Applications are reviewed by consultants and attorneys before moving forward. He noted that some projects have not reached the City Council level because applicants either lost interest or decided not to proceed.
Judge added that the city is currently working with several other businesses that are considering locating in Mount Carmel. Economic development packages are being assembled for those prospects, and city officials remain hopeful some of those efforts will lead to new investment and job opportunities in the community.
For now, Judge says the search for a new grocery store remains ongoing.