Batteries bring jobs to Delaware

A new 400,000 square-foot facility in Middletown is expected to bring dozens of jobs by June 2012.

Johnson Controls-Power Solutions Group is building a new $60 million car battery facility in the Westown Business Park in Middletown, Gov. Jack Markell and the Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO) announced Monday.  Johnson Controls already has an existing facility in town, and the new plant is slated to add 67 new, full time jobs by next summer.

“Johnson Controls’ decision to put more Delawareans to work reflects our growing reputation as a great place to build a business,” Gov. Jack Markell said.  “We’re proud that these products serving the region will be produced and distributed right here in Delaware.”

DEDO’s Council on Development Finance voted unanimously Monday to award a $2.06 million tax incentive from the Delaware Strategic Fund to Johnson Controls.  The Governor’s office says the decision to use taxpayer money makes financial sense when you consider construction of the new facility alone will put dozens of Delawareans back to work, all pumping money back into the local economy.

“This is great news for Delaware and especially for Middletown,” said DEDO Secretary Alan Levin. “We are proud of the success of Johnson Controls. The company’s growth and continued commitment to Delaware is putting more individuals back to work while boosting state’s economy.”

With the expansion, Johnson Controls will employ more than 280 people in Delaware.