County approves purchase of roughly 140 acres near Sawmill Parkway to attract employers

The Delaware County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to acquire roughly 140.179 acres near the intersection of US‑42 and Sawmill Parkway for economic development purposes.

Dana McDaniel of the Office of Economic Development told the board the county intends to assemble a competitive development site that benefits from existing utilities, proximity to Delaware Municipal Airport and nearby industrial employers. McDaniel said the purchase supports the county’s 2023 economic development strategy to focus investment along primary growth corridors, improve site readiness and diversify the tax base.

Commissioners described the move as proactive land control intended to attract a large corporate campus or advanced manufacturing facility, generate higher‑paying jobs, and expand property and sales tax revenues. The county previously invested in Sawmill Parkway and other infrastructure, McDaniel said, and recent city investments to extend utilities increased the site’s readiness.

Commissioners praised staff work on the acquisition and noted collaboration with the city of Delaware. The board approved Resolution 26‑465 to proceed with the purchase; details about the purchase price and closing timeline were described as "plus or minus 140.179 acres" in the presentation and exact financial terms were not specified in the hearing record.

Commissioners said the acquisition is intended to support long‑term regional economic growth and that staff will follow up on implementation and coordination with city partners.