Pittsburg approves updated EaglePicher lease; company says security reviews delayed construction timeline

The Pittsburg City Commission on July 8 approved an updated lease with EaglePicher Technologies LLC for a new manufacturing facility in Pittsburg, moving the substantial‑completion date from November to February to accommodate additional government security and safety review requirements.

City staff and company representatives told the commission the changes are primarily date shifts tied to funding, design, bidding and contracting timelines. The company said it will make interest payments for July in advance to demonstrate commitment and that its existing Pittsburg facility has grown roughly 50% since February. A company representative clarified the new plant will build power components used in certain military systems; the speaker explicitly said the company is not building complete Tomahawk missiles.

City staff asked for approval of the updated lease. Commissioner Stu moved and Commissioner Cheryl seconded approval; commissioners voiced 'aye' and the motion carried. The staff presentation noted continued work on design and bonding and said the project still intends to add multiple salaried and manufacturing positions next year (the company projected about 50 salaried positions and 30–35 production jobs). The lease update includes date adjustments and a revised substantial‑completion milestone but does not alter the fundamental structure of the lease as previously approved in February.

Commissioners and staff framed the approval as supporting local economic development while acknowledging the need to meet federal security and contractor requirements prior to full build‑out. The city will continue coordination with the company as bidding, contracting and bond sales proceed.