Council tables G and H Wire abatement review after company cites sales decline and leadership turnover

The Franklin City Council tabled an abatement compliance review for G and H Wire after the company reported lower sales, leadership turnover and a decline in average wages. The council asked the company to return next month with a more detailed strategic plan.

Staff said G and H Wire was above its investment estimates but below on employee numbers. Angel Hahn, who identified herself as the company's controller, told the council that sales are soft—about 65% of sales are foreign—and that the company has been hampered by regulatory and technology issues in moving some operations. Hahn said the firm has had leadership changes and recently hired a number of plant workers after using temporary staff.

Council members pointed to data showing average wages dropped about $3 per hour from 2024 to 2025 and total salaries declined by roughly $800,000; Hahn said that decline is in part explained by removal of higher outlying leadership salaries and that the new CEO and CFO are steering toward bringing more employees on site. "We have a brand new CEO and CFO right now," Hahn said, and the company anticipates hiring some engineering and marketing staff while focusing on in-plant roles.

After discussion, a motion was made to table case C2026-10 and ask G and H Wire to return next month with a strategic plan and additional details; the motion was seconded and passed on an 'aye' vote.

Why it matters: The council evaluates performance-based abatements against investment, wage and employment commitments. By tabling the case the council is seeking more specific hiring and operational detail before making a final compliance determination.

Council staff said they will follow up with the company and provide meeting details to ensure they appear at the next meeting.