Battleford town council voted to waive a clause in a land exchange agreement with an oilfield storage tank builder Monday to clear the way for the company to proceed with plans to develop a plant in Battleford.
The land exchange and development agreement with developer Leading Manufacturing Groups Holdings Inc. (LMG) of Lisku, Alta. was made in June of 2012. The transfer involves six parcels of land near 18th and 20th Streets west of Highway 4.
Mayor Derek Maher said the agreement with LMG will not only see another industry in Battleford, but some land will be available for sale by the town once the development is completed. He had alluded to progress in the town's relationship with LMG at the previous town council meeting, saying some information would be coming to council's table soon.
In waiving the clause in respect to the subdivision of lots, the town agreed to "use its best efforts to assist and support the subdivision when LMG proceeds with the subdivision in the future."
Town Administrator Sheryl Ballendine said there has never been a time when a council has not been supportive of such a project.
While the facility is currently in the planning and construction phases, LMG is accepting resumés for all positions to be kept on file, including apprentice welders, journeyman welders, foamers, labourers and shipper/receivers.
LMG, a manufacturer specializing in shop fabricated heavy oil tanks from 50 barrel to 3,000 barrel capacity, was founded by Lee Gottschlich in 2010, with an administrative office in Nisku, a sales office in Calgary, Alta, and a manufacturing facility located in Vermilion, Alta.
The plant in Vermilion is a totally self-contained facility that allows 3,000 barrel tanks up to 23'-6" in diameter and 40' in height to be manufactured in a quality controlled indoor facility.
