Recovery zone causes several debates

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Last month, the Vigo County commissioners voted to make Vigo County a recovery zone, based on the economic stress of last year's flooding.

The county can use more than $7 million in recovery zone facility bonds. Half of that money has been set aside to build and maintain a new distribution center for Clabber Girl in Terre Haute.

So far, Dora Hotels is the only other business that has shown interest in getting some of the money to help them finance a new hotel out by State Road 46 and Interstate 70.

Labor officials spoke out at Tuesday morning's commissioner meeting, asking if local businesses build, they should contract local labor.

"What we would like to see, if there are any contracts still available. I did hear today that some of the contracts have already been let. I guess since the contracts have still been let, they still could use local people," Todd Thacker with IBEW 725 said.

County officials said those interested in getting recovery zone bonds only have until the end of this year.