The Wayne County Industrial Development Agency met earlier this month to discuss a range of economic development initiatives, including a multimodal transportation study, ongoing property transfers, and potential incentives for workforce housing. The board also finalized committee assignments and reviewed financial updates for the agency’s ongoing projects.
A key focus of the meeting was the county’s effort to secure funding for a multimodal transportation study through the Genesee Transportation Council’s Unified Planning Work Program. The study aims to connect population centers with key resources and build on the county’s existing parks and recreation plan. IDA officials said they are seeking matching funds for the grant, which has a tight application deadline. Although the application window has not yet opened, the board moved forward with early preparations to ensure the county is ready to apply.
The board also discussed progress on the Wayne County Correctional Facility property transfer, a long-standing effort to repurpose the former prison site. IDA officials said all required documentation has been submitted to the state, and the matter is scheduled for review at the Empire State Development (ESD) board meeting in February. Once state approval is secured, the county will finalize a land purchase agreement with Westbury Lumber, the private company acquiring the site. Officials expect the sale to close by April, marking a significant step in redeveloping the property for economic use.
Financial updates included a review of the IDA’s account balances and operating budget. The agency reported that revenue and expenses for 2025 are tracking as expected, with project planning funds already allocated for the year. Board members also discussed updates to the agency’s internal control and finance policy, which were adjusted to align with new accounting standards.
The board also considered whether the IDA should expand its role in supporting workforce housing projects. Housing shortages have become a pressing issue in Wayne County, with businesses struggling to attract workers due to a lack of available housing. IDA officials noted that some industrial development agencies in other counties, including Ontario County, have begun providing tax incentives for market-rate housing projects. While the Wayne County IDA has traditionally avoided housing-related projects, board members agreed to explore the issue further. They plan to review recommendations from the county’s housing plan at a future meeting before deciding whether to introduce policies to support housing initiatives.
Board members acknowledged that housing concerns are closely linked to the anticipated economic boom from the Micron semiconductor facility being developed in nearby Onondaga County. With thousands of new jobs expected in the region, housing demand is projected to rise significantly, making Wayne County a potential destination for new residents. Board members expressed interest in working with municipalities and school districts to determine whether IDA incentives for housing development would be viable.
The meeting also included a discussion on the search for a new Wayne County Administrator following Rick House’s resignation. The county has launched a nationwide search for candidates, with applications due by February 19. A search committee, including members of the Board of Supervisors and county HR officials, will oversee the hiring process.
The board finalized committee assignments for the year and appointed a new member to the Audit and Finance Committee following the departure of a previous board member. The next Wayne County IDA meeting is scheduled for February 25.
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