Panel clears way for turkey hatchery in Vigo County

Select Genetics has increased the size of its original proposed building to 115,000 square feet, up from 83,000 square feet. The company will invest $20 million and is to create 100 new jobs.

Last month the commission opened a bid for 40 acres. Select Genetics bid on the land for $1 per acre, or $40.

“This is consistent with the negotiations made with Select Genetics,” said Jeffry A. Lind, attorney for the Vigo County Redevelopment Commission.

Because the bid was lower than the average of two appraisals, the commission had to wait 30 days before it could accept the bid, Lind said.

The hatchery will include property that is within the Staples Tax Increment Finance district, which will allow the county to provide $1.5 million to Select Genetics as incentive for the project. The company could use that for utility and infrastructure needs.

Select Genetics was formed through a merger of Valley of the Moon Commercial Poults (formed in 2011 by Aviagen Turkeys) and Willmar Poultry/Ag Forte.