Jobs behind push to bring SunCoke Energy to area

$340M plant represents the largest investment in Ohio over past several years.

Largest projects under development

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By Jessica Heffner, Staff Writer Updated 11:54 PM Saturday, July 4, 2009

In a time where economic development is slow and seldom, a $340 million project offering 500 temporary and 75 permanent jobs is nothing to thumb your nose at.

Such is the feelings of state and some local officials on the new SunCoke Energy coke oven project, set to be built in Middletown and partner with AK Steel’s operations there to provide coke and electricity.

In terms of large-scale development coming to the state over the next few years, SunCoke is pegged as the largest investment, according to data from the Ohio Department of Development.

And while it has immense implications for the success and viability of Middletown, the project extends far beyond its borders.

“The $340 million SunCoke plant in Middletown is going to bring much-needed jobs — both construction and well-paying manufacturing jobs when the plant opens — to our region,” said U.S. House Minority Leader John Boehner, R-West Chester Twp. “When up and running, the plant will provide AK Steel with a steady supply at a stable price of the most expensive raw material it needs to make American steel.”

However, constant delays have plagued the project, the latest a Clean Air Act lawsuit filed by the city of Monroe, which said it opposes the project because of permit and health concerns. The company is currently pursuing a New Source Review permit in an effort to circumvent such issues.

Mike Robinette, economic development director for the city of Middletown, said he is concerned that roadblocks and the continued deterioration of the economy could put the SunCoke project in jeopardy, which could have far-reaching affects for the region.

“My view is that we are working to ensure that the Middletown Works is a sustainable business enterprise in the long-term and that is within the best interests of the region and the county and the city,” he said.

In a time when Butler County and several cities within the county are being forced to make budget cuts, the additional property taxes from SunCoke would be appreciated, said Mike Juengling, director of development for the county.

Keep reading: SunCoke can help fuel Ohio’s recovery, officials say

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