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Giles County hears update on potential manufacturer move, Pilot wastewater plan and Exit 14 retail activity
Summary
County economic development staff told commissioners that Key/Keith Consolidated Industries is considering relocating to Giles County and that Pilot is evaluating a 47,000-gallon-per-day wastewater system requiring roughly $1.5 million in capital; staff also reported retail openings and a scheduled auction for a Hampton Inn property.
County economic development staff briefed the commission on several prospective and active projects that could affect local jobs and tax revenue.
An economic-development representative (speaker 15) said Key/Keith Consolidated Industries — described in the meeting as currently operating out of Oregon with roughly 70 employees — has shown interest in relocating to the Bankston property in Ardmore. Staff reported meetings with Tennessee Department of Agriculture and other state economic-development partners and ongoing coordination with training providers (TCAT, UT Southern) to meet workforce needs for skilled welders.
Pilot and wastewater: The county and Pilot are discussing wastewater arrangements tied to new Pilot operations at Exit 14. Staff described a potential 47,000‑gallon‑per‑day treatment system with an estimated capital investment of about $1.5 million. Pilot said it may look for an operator (the county cannot both own and operate the plant); staff are talking to South Childs Utility District about whether that utility would operate the system.
Retail and hotels: The update said retail and restaurant openings are moving forward around Exit 14, with a new business expected to open by mid‑April and additional outlets anticipated through the summer. Staff also reported a foreclosure auction scheduled for the Hampton Inn property on March 24 at 10:00 a.m., and that at least one hotel firm has expressed interest in Giles County.
Why it matters: Commissioners said new industrial or hotel investment could increase property and sales tax receipts and help close budget shortfalls without increasing property taxes. Staff cautioned that commercial projects have multi-year timelines and that wastewater decisions include regulatory and operating constraints.
What commissioners asked for: more follow‑up on workforce training plans, a projected timeline for Pilot’s wastewater decision and a report back on any firm commitments for the Bankston property.
Ending: Staff said they will continue outreach with prospective firms and with state partners and will report updates to the commission as negotiations and permitting progress.
