Findlay Ranked Top Micropolitan Community in the U.S. Fourth Year in a Row

Tim R. Mayle
Findlay•Hancock County Economic Development

For the fourth consecutive year, Findlay, Ohio has been ranked the top micropolitan community in the U.S. for new and expanding facilities by Site Selection magazine, the official publication of the Global FDI Association and the Industrial Asset Management Council. The magazine ranked 575 of the nation’s micropolitan areas, cities of 10,000 to 50,000 people which cover at least one county.

“Four years in a row as top small city in America is an emphatic endorsement of Findlay, its favorable business climate and its aggressive approach to economic development.  The Findlay formula is a model that other cities, big and small alike, would do well to emulate.”, said Gary Daughters, Senior Editor Site Selection Magazine.

The Findlay•Hancock County Economic Development Office compiled and submitted 21 projects that met Site Selection’s qualifying criteria. Among those that qualified were the Campbell Soup Distribution Center, representing a $44 million investment, Valfilm’s 40,000 square foot plant expansion, a $6 million investment and AutoLiv Nissin Brake System’s new 216,000 sq foot facility, a $70 million investment.

“The Findlay Formula has resulted in a pro-business environment making it easy for companies to invest.”, said Findlay Mayor Lydia Mihalik.  “The fact we have been ranked #1 four years in a row demonstrates to investors that we are ready for them.  Wins like AutoLiv Nissin, Campbell Soup, Valfilm, could choose anywhere in the world and North America, we are thankful they chose Findlay.”

“Economic Development has broadened its purpose to now include: Retention & Expansion, Attraction, Downtown Findlay, Small Business, Workforce and Community Planning” said Tim Mayle, Economic Development Director.  “2017 was a record year for job creation and construction by Site Selection Magazine’s metrics.  Findlay also saw the construction of two hotels, a 100,000 square foot spec building, two multi-family residential communities and a new business school at the University of Findlay.”

The Top Micropolitan recognition demonstrates that companies continue to invest in Findlay.  It did not take long for Dan Wendorf, Managing Director Jones Lange LaSalle (JLL) a Leader of Global Real Estate Services, to realize why companies continue to invest in Findlay.  Wendorf praises “cohesion” among Findlay’s economic development professionals, elected officials and private sector partners, which facilitates speed and focus in going after deals.  “They have sites that are ready, they are pro-business and they coordinate their efforts with no individual agendas. You really do feel like they’re there to make it happen.”

“It is great to be recognized for 2017 investments but 2018 is shaping up to be another outstanding year.”, said Brian Robertson, Hancock County Commissioner.  “For the first time in many years a spec building is under construction in our community.  We will be prepared for future investments with infrastructure and available buildings.”

A newly released video “We Are Ready for You….Are You Ready for Findlay?” can be found at www.FindFindlay.com detailing why organizations have invested in Findlay.

For more information, please contact the Findlay•Hancock County Economic Development Office at 419-422-3313.