Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 19, 2000
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Gov. Locke hosts signing ceremony between Boise Cascade and Grays Harbor Public Development Authority

OLYMPIA - "New high-wage jobs, a solid place in the high technology industry, and strong economic growth are what the people of Grays Harbor will see in the immediate future," Gov. Gary Locke remarked at today's signing of a lease agreement between Boise Cascade and the Grays Harbor Public Development Authority.

"This agreement will bring as many as 150 new family wage jobs to Grays Harbor County, and at the same time, it will keep the high technology jobs that have been instrumental in revitalizing the Grays Harbor economy," Locke said just before the two sides signed the deal.

After months of working through many issues, Boise Cascade, the PDA and SafeHarbor.com have come to an agreement that will allow both businesses to operate in the Satsop Development Park, Locke added.

Locke was instrumental in encouraging Boise Cascade to build a product plant in the Satsop Development Park, instead of in Medford, Oregon. He was able to help put together $400,000 in funds from the federal Workforce Investment Act. Over the next two years the company will use that money to train a production crew on the new equipment at the Satsop facility.

After learning of SafeHarbor's concerns about the Boise plant affecting its operation, Governor Locke urged both parties to negotiate in good faith, and worked with the two companies to find a solution.

"I believe SafeHarbor is making a difference in the lives of many people, and I am proud that we have been able to play an important role in their success."

Locke added Boise Cascade will enhance the economic future of Grays Harbor County.

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