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Solon company wins $2.7 million federal stimulus
(by Sue Reid - December 23, 2009)
Solon company wins $2.7 million federal stimulus
By SUE REID
A Solon company will be one of several in Ohio to receive a total of over $35 million in federal funds slated for research and development of defense-related technology for military use.
Hunter Manufacturing Co., located at 30525 Aurora Road (Route 43) in the city's industrial district, will receive $2.7 million in federal funds through the office of U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio. Mr. Brown, along with U.S. Rep. Steven C. LaTourette, R-Bainbridge, helped secure the funds included in the fiscal 2010 Department of Defense Appropriations Act.
The project to be undertaken by Hunter is for the regenerative filtration system for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense. This project will design, manufacture and test a regenerative chemical bio-filtration system to provide continuous full-spectrum protection. The programs will enhance the protection of the military and the Department of Homeland Security forces.
The news that Hunter is receiving these funds is "phenomenal," Solon Economic Development Director Peggy Weil-Dorfman said. "To get good news like this in this economy, it's especially appreciated."
Ms. Weil-Dorfman said the company, which has been in the city since 1955, also has received a job-creation grant, completed last month. The subject of the grant application was to allow consolidation of its corporate headquarters in Solon, she said.
To do that, Hunter would lease additional space across the street from its 52,000-square-foot building and within three years would create another 50 jobs. The company received a 40 percent grant for 10 years of the new payroll tax. The money can be used for any purpose, but it is not construction-related, Ms. Weil-Dorfman said.
Hunter, which has 160 employees, has several divisions, all under the parent company. One division manufactures tent and truck heating units used by both the military and commercial applications. Another manufactures air filters and air-filtration systems used by the military, while another manufactures rapidly deployable tactical shelters. Hunter also develops power-generation systems for military application and another division provides engineering services.
Founded in 1937 by Robert Hunter, the company is a single resource for complete turn-key solutions for the comfort and protection of personnel against deadly airborne toxins.
"They have a niche market," Ms. Weil-Dorfman said.
Mr. Brown said the funds, "will provide support for our troops while creating jobs in the process.
"Defense research and development does not only support our military, it enhances the commercial viability of new technologies. The funding in this bill will help Ohio institutions lead the way in development of better equipment for our service members and new technology for our nation," he said.
The Senate bill also will support projects in Akron, Beavercreek, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Elyria, Fairborn, Holland, Mentor, Orrville and Vandalia.
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