Columbia Gas Makes First Jobs Growth Fund Award to Plastics Recycler

Columbia Gas of Ohio has awarded a grant of $50,000 to the plastics recycling company Coll Materials, based in Zanesville, Ohio. The grant money came from the Columbia Gas’ newly created Jobs Growth Fund.

The Fund, launched in July 2010 by the Columbus, Ohio, energy company, seeks to provide financial assistance to companies that create new jobs in Columbia Gas’ service territory.

Coll Materials says it will use the money to create 25 new jobs and to retain 48 existing positions in the Zanesville area. Coll Materials recently announced plans to invest $2.27 million in new equipment to increase recycling capacity at its Zanesville plant.

“We are very pleased to make our first Jobs Growth Fund award to Coll Materials,” says Jack Partridge, Columbia Gas of Ohio president. “The company is at a critical point in its development, and the increased production capacity will ensure not only additional jobs but retention of good existing jobs in the Zanesville community.”

He adds, “As a local natural gas utility, we simply cannot pick up our pipes and move to another state or country. We have a vested interest in the economic growth and vitality of the communities we serve. Ohio needs jobs, and Columbia Gas is stepping up and investing dollars in companies that can make that happen.”

Renee Coll, co-owner and vice president of sales for Coll Materials, says, “As a rapidly growing company in the region, Coll Materials appreciates the resources Columbia Gas of Ohio is making available to business through the Jobs Growth Fund and the recognition that our region can create employment opportunities in a challenging economic climate. We are proud that our company, and our region, is receiving the first award from the Jobs Growth Fund.”