Coast Packing, a California-based producer of animal-based shortening products for restaurants such as Golden Chick, Chicken Express and Popeyes, officially broke ground Tuesday on a new facility in Amarillo. The $30 million project is expected to create up to 60 new jobs and potentially generate 158 spinoff jobs in supporting industries. Several local officials attended the event, including Amarillo Mayor Cole Stanley and Potter County Judge Nancy Tanner.
Economic incentives and growth
In 2022, the Amarillo City Council unanimously approved a package of economic incentives to bring Coast Packing to the city. Under Ordinance 8026, 30 acres near Centerport Boulevard and Folsom Road were designated as Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) No. 21 for commercial and industrial abatement. In addition, the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) agreed to convey that land — valued at $1.2 million — to Coast Packing and provide up to $720,000 in job-creation funds over a 10-year period. Further incentives include:
- $12,000 per full-time employee, up to 60 positions
- 80% tax abatement on the new facility’s estimated $30 million construction cost
- $1 million in rail site improvements
Potter County judge: ‘A good day’
Speaking at Tuesday’s ceremony, Potter County Judge Nancy Tanner hailed the project as a major milestone for the region’s economic growth.
“It’s extremely satisfying to know that growth in Amarillo is still happening,” Tanner said. “I’m very, very proud that this corporation is coming through because we need the growth in industry. This is a good day.”
Tanner emphasized that the Commissioners’ Court consistently seeks opportunities to encourage business expansion…