A local, unidentified firm is interested in buying about 10 acres the Schoharie County IDA owns on Mineral Springs road to grow its business and retain 35 jobs.
Negotiations have just begun; Monday IDA Board members agreed to have a “highest and best use” appraisal done on the site.
IDA CEO Ron Filmer Jr. said the firm doesn’t need the building; the IDA, along with SCCASA, are in the process of moving to 597 East Main Street, Cobleskill, the former offices of Cadaret Grant & Co.
The IDA land is adjacent to about five acres Schoharie County owns, which Mr. Filmer said the firm is also interested in.
The parcels are separate from another piece IDA owns on the south side of Mineral Springs Road where there have also been inquiries—and an appraisal.
Both of the IDA sites have water, sewer, and gas and have been identified by consultants for the county as prime for development, if on the small side for any likely project.
With SEEC, the county’s been looking at developing a shovel-ready site somewhere in the I-88 corridor, possibly at Shad Point.
Mr. Filmer said he’s been asked whether the IDA would take the lead on a business park, something he said “could range all the way to ownership. I think it’s coming to a head to decide on our role.”
IDA board member Peter Johnson said that’s an important question with both opportunities and risks.
“These are important decisions for the county in terms of economic development,” he said.