The Hamilton City Council held a special called meeting on May 16, 2025, to discuss the development of two speculative buildings aimed at attracting technology companies to the area. The proposed project includes a 25,000 square foot building and a larger, expandable 50,000 square foot building on a 9.5-acre site. The initiative is part of the Growing Alabama program, which provides funding without requiring a local match.
During the meeting, officials highlighted a strong interest from a technology project in the smaller building, indicating that this development could lead to job creation and economic growth for Hamilton. The total estimated cost for the project is approximately $6.07 million, which includes expenses for permitting, civil engineering, and quality assurance measures.
Council members discussed the potential risks associated with construction costs, noting that while there may be some overages, they expect the project to remain within budget. The city is committed to facilitating the development, with a good faith effort to ensure at least one of the buildings is constructed within the next two years.
The Growing Alabama program aims to encourage development in rural areas, and Hamilton officials expressed optimism about the project's competitiveness in securing funding. The council believes that this initiative could significantly enhance the local economy by preparing sites for future technology companies.
In conclusion, the Hamilton City Council's meeting underscored a proactive approach to economic development, with plans to utilize state resources to attract new businesses and create job opportunities in the community.