Tannery considering 110 acres in Wilmer

WILMER – While some residents might be worried about the possibility of a tannery moving to their city, Wilmer City Administrator Dr. John Hubbard said it is a good thing.

Recently, the Wilmer city council approved an incentive package to offer a company called Leathertec Worldwide Inc., an offer to join the ranks of development in the area.

Hubbard said, “As of this writing, they have not accepted our offer, and Wilmer does not know if they will be moving here.”

Leathertec is a luxury leather products manufacturing facility, and if the company does decide to make its new home in Wilmer, it is estimated Phase I will bring in 1,600 jobs – plus promises to attract related industries.

“In addition, the company will generate new ad valorem, business, personal, property and sales tax for the city,” Hubbard said. At the end of Phase II, it is estimated the city should see 3,000 people employed with Leathertec overall.

Leathertec is considering purchasing 110 acres on the south side of Lavender Road adjacent to the UPRR in Wilmer to operate the luxury leather goods facility.

The Phase I plant would be 665,000 sq. ft., and anticipated real property with machinery/equipment values are approximately $175 million.

The amount of inventory that is not subject to Triple Freeport Exemptions is $50 million, and the total approximate assessed value of Phase 1 facilities and business personal property is $225 million. Leathertec plans on breaking ground in 2019, beginning initial operations in 2020.

The Phase II operation could have Tier II manufacturers located adjacent to the plant that would have $175 million in additional assessed values along with the additional 1,400 jobs. Staff noted the site for the manufacturing facility is well away from any residential neighborhoods and is zoned for this type of development.