Governor lauds plant expansion

CLOVIS — Gov. Susana Martinez on Thursday congratulated Cummins Inc. on news the company was expanding its presence in Clovis.

The company expansion, done through the Clovis Industrial Development Corporation, creates 10 new positions at the south Clovis plant.

"When we lower taxes, cut through bureaucratic red tape and strengthen our incentives, companies choose New Mexico," Martinez said in a release. "Cummins is staying and growing in New Mexico. They are providing fantastic job opportunities to the community and I congratulate them on their continued success."

The Clovis city commission approved an ordinance regarding the expansion in October. Plant manager Scott Odom said during the commission's Sept. 6 meeting — when the ordinance was introduced — that hiring had already begun for the project.

The expansion requires a new 22,500 square foot facility, with an overall commitment of $950,000 — $510,000 loaned from the CIDC to the economic development tax fund, $290,000 from a Clovis Economic Incentive Board grant and $150,000 from the state economic development department.

Construction of the facility began last month and is expected to be operational in June.

Cummins is making its own investment of $2.5 million in the project, which allows the company to dip into the engine remanufacturing business. The company has had operations in Clovis for more than 40 years.

"We're thrilled that Cummins continues to expand in Clovis," said Economic Development Cabinet Secretary Matt Geisel. "This company makes a tremendous economic impact to the Clovis region and we're proud to see them expanding and creating more jobs for New Mexicans."

The CIDC owns the land where Cummins is located, and leases it to the company at a below-market rate.

Chase Gentry, executive director for the CIDC, said the new hires will bring the plant to 48 employees.

"The city of Clovis and Clovis Industrial Development commend Cummins for their continued commitment to Clovis and New Mexico," Gentry said.