Gov. Andy Beshear announced a new development for E & E Hardwoods Inc. in Bell County, Kentucky. Following a fire in December 2024, which destroyed its previous facility, the company plans to invest $2.1 million to establish a new operation, creating 37 jobs.
"Kentucky has always been home to some of the hardest-working people I have ever met," Gov. Beshear stated, highlighting the resilience of the local community and E & E Hardwoods' swift recovery efforts.
The company aims to relocate to a 30,000-square-foot facility to support expansion efforts. "E & E Hardwoods Inc. is excited about the opportunities ahead," said company President Paul C. Elliott, underscoring the project's significance for the local economy.
Founded in the 1960s, E & E Hardwoods began as a small sawmill supporting mining operations. Over the years, it has evolved into a full-grade sawmill operation and remains the only one of its kind in Bell County.
Bell County Judge/Executive Albey Brock expressed enthusiasm for the expansion, noting the company's deep roots in the community.
The project is part of a broader trend of job creation and economic growth under Gov. Beshear's administration. Since taking office, he has announced over 1,100 private projects with investments totaling $35 billion, leading to the creation of more than 60,500 jobs.
Wages across the state have risen, with the average incentivized hourly wage exceeding $26 for the past three years. Gov. Beshear has also facilitated major projects like Ford Motor Co. and SK On's BlueOval SK Battery Park and AESC's gigafactory project.
The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority has preliminarily approved a 15-year incentive agreement with E & E Hardwoods under the Kentucky Business Investment program. The agreement could provide up to $625,000 in tax incentives based on the company's investment and job creation targets.
By meeting these targets, the company may be eligible for tax benefits, impacting its income tax liability or wage assessments.