Lycoming County is set to become a hub for domestic aluminum manufacturing following a significant investment from Chance Aluminum Corporation. During the recent County Commissioners meeting, the board approved a $2.5 million agreement with the company, which promises to create hundreds of well-paying jobs and revitalize the local economy. Doctor Jack Cheng, representing Chance Aluminum, expressed gratitude to the commissioners for their support, emphasizing the project’s potential to strengthen the nation’s supply chain and infrastructure.

The new facility is expected to position Lycoming County as a leader in advanced aluminum production, marking a pivotal moment for the region's industrial landscape. Cheng highlighted the commitment to building a state-of-the-art facility that aligns with the county's vision for economic growth and innovation.

In addition to the aluminum project, the commissioners addressed several other key matters. They approved a professional services agreement for legal counsel for the sheriff's office and renewed a contract for psychological services related to the hiring process. The board also rectified a clerical error in a $200,000 recycling equipment grant from the Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring continued support for local recycling initiatives.

Furthermore, the commissioners ratified the county's acknowledgment of a letter concerning opioid litigation, opting to withdraw from adding certain plan benefit managers to the complaint. This decision was made to avoid the financial burden associated with further litigation, as the county is considered a smaller entity in the ongoing class action suit.

Overall, the meeting underscored a proactive approach to economic development and community welfare, with the aluminum manufacturing investment standing out as a transformative opportunity for Lycoming County. The commissioners expressed optimism about the future, reinforcing their commitment to fostering a thriving local economy.