Westgate leaders report tenants, payroll growth and security upgrades; commission votes to block Dollar General at Progress Point

Westgate Tech Park representatives updated the Greene County Redevelopment Commission on tenant and payroll figures, security upgrades and several planned developments, and the commission voted to oppose a proposed Dollar General at Progress Point.

During the report, Westgate leaders said they submitted updated tenant and payroll data to the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC). The commission was told the reported tenant or employee count rose from 956 to about 1,016 and that total payroll is now "just over $91,000,000," which the presenter said works out to roughly $89,600 per employee at Westgate. The speaker said Crane and other large employers at the park are paying higher wages, which affects local labor markets.

Westgate staff also discussed facility needs tied to growth: an Indiana University survey on daycare demand for the park’s workforce, plans for a Lehi Travel Center at the southwest corner of I-69 and 231 that would include truck parking and food services, and a recently approved security-camera system to be installed by Smithville Telephone. The Westgate president said the camera system at the academy could serve as a model for nearby developments.

Commercial activity and new building prospects were discussed, including references to firms and facilities described as radiation-hardening/testing and other defense-supply activity (acronyms RCE and CACI were mentioned). Officials said some projects may largely occupy remaining developable land in neighboring Martin County.

Dollar General: A representative said Dollar General has approached Westgate twice about a site near the Progress Point hotel; the Westgate president objected and the commission adopted a motion formally opposing a Dollar General at that location. The motion to oppose the store was made, seconded and approved by voice vote; the chair said he will inform the company of the commission’s decision.

Why it matters: Westgate’s workforce and payroll numbers inform county economic-development metrics and IEDC reports. Security investments and day-care planning are practical responses to rapid growth and to the needs of industrial and logistics employers in the park.

What’s next: Westgate staff said they will continue outreach on daycare and will move forward with the Smithville camera installation. The chair said he will notify Dollar General of the commission’s vote.