JOHNSON ANNOUNCES $252,819 IN CLEAN OHIO FUNDS FOR PERRY COUNTY
Remediation of Former LEMPCO Site Expected to Lead to 28 New Jobs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 10, 2006

Columbus, OH -- Lieutenant Governor Bruce Johnson today announced that a $252,819 grant from the Clean Ohio Assistance Fund (COAF) has been awarded to Perry County for brownfield remediation activities on a site located in New Lexington. The site is being prepared for new investment, which when complete, is expected to create 28 jobs.

“The Clean Ohio Assistance Fund is a valuable tool in regenerating the economic capabilities of our communities,” said Johnson, who also serves as state development director. “By preparing brownfield sites for new business opportunities, we are demonstrating that ‘Ohio Means Business’. I’m confident that by continuing to invest in our communities, our efforts will lead to future economic success and the creation of good jobs for Perry County workers.”

Perry County will use this funding for the environmental assessment of the former LEMPCO Industries facility located at 526 South Main Street in New Lexington. The current owner, The Perry County Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) has owned the property since June 2005. The five-acre factory portion of the site is being considered for purchase by True American Motorcycles, a new business that will specialize in the manufacturing of custom motorcycles.

The State Controlling Board today approved the funds, which were awarded from the $10 million COAF. COAF funds must be used for Phase I and II Environmental Assessments, brownfield redevelopment or public health projects. Projects located in situational distressed, inner distressed, distressed or labor surplus cities are eligible for funding. Projects are evaluated based on economic benefit; environmental improvement, including public health benefit; appropriateness and reasonableness of the proposed project and the financial condition of the community.