Quincy ranks high for high-tech business

QUINCY — A cost analysis study commissioned by the Port of Quincy determined Quincy is a competitive place for a high technology manufacturing businesses to locate.

The Boyd Company was hired to conduct a study on costs associated with building a 250,000 square-foot facility and operating it with 300 employees.

It was determined Quincy ranked ninth out of 45 other similar cities across the nation as one of the least expensive areas to operate a high-tech manufacturing business.

The study was completed to show potential businesses the positive attributes Quincy has to offer. It saves potential businesses the time and money to conduct their own study.

“We have a lot of prospects that come in the area,” Cascade Consulting Group President Pat Boss said. “It’s a good tool in the toolbox.”

He explained the firm is an independent third party. The firm reviewed all the costs associated with opening a high-tech manufacturing business and then compared them with like cities throughout the nation.

Boyd Company President Jack Boyd explained he visited with Quincy business members and community leaders to witness what Quincy is like and to interview people to gather comparative cost data.

“It’s an economic analysis,” he said. “In today’s economy, that’s what’s driving decisions.”

He determined it would cost $21 million to operate the facility annually based upon labor, power, property and sales tax, corporate travel and amortization costs.

Boyd explained Quincy is the cheapest city to operate a high-tech business in the western area of the nation.

“The analysis has been structured to be a relevant cost-comparison tool for a broad segment of high technology companies engaged in advanced manufacturing operations and computer-operated production processes in sectors such as precision metalworking, engineered plastics, composites and other advanced manufacturing” he noted.

Boss explained there are other qualities to Quincy aside from the cost information. It is central to Moses Lake, Wenatchee and Ellensburg. He said there is a secondary job market, shopping choices and a variety of places to live due to it’s location.

Boyd explained the access to power, low operating costs, availability of manufacturing skill sets, affordable land and rail access are key attributes enticing businesses to locate to Quincy.

“It’s a huge advantage,” he said about the power availability. “It’s reliable and green.”

Boss said the report further encourages his confidence in Quincy to attract businesses and grow.