It is reported that the Midland Development Corporation voted unanimously to negotiate an economic development deal with a steel supplier that would bring 31 new jobs to the area and more availability in supplies to the construction and oil industries.

Mr Don Woodward business development director of MDC said that after opening in January 2011, the owners of Elite Steel Components Limited approached the MDC about helping the company become established in exchange for bringing jobs to Midland with an average annual wage of USD 41,000. He added that "We don't have a company of this type in Midland."

Mr Robert Rendall chairman of MDC said that the total dollar amount of the economic development agreement has not been determined. The length of the agreement also still is being worked out between the two parties.

Mr Rendall said that it likely will give the company the ability to hire its 31 employees over a period of time.

He added that "It's a company that's already here, and they're going to be expanding their production capability and will maintain a larger inventory of steel products for the construction industry, so hopefully there'll be less lead time for people who are constructing."

Mr Rendall said that the deal falls into the category of development of an existing business, and it likely will thrive off the expansion of the base industries already in Midland.

Mr Carrianne Bassett office manager at Elite Steel said that the company manufactures and supplies steel for several uses including metal buildings, structural steel needs and for the oil industry.

Mr Bassett said that they've had inquiries for employment from people in the area and from those living in other states who've heard about the growing economy in West Texas and are looking to move.

(Sourced from www.mywesttexas.com)