WARREN, Ark. – The Southeast Arkansas Regional Intermodal Facilities Authority (SARIFA) convened on Wednesday at the BCEDC Building to discuss potential developments and financial matters. One of the major highlights of the meeting was a proposal presented by Jason Cater, a poultry veterinarian, regarding the establishment of a feed mill on the Intermodal property.
The meeting saw the presence of SARIFA members including Chairman John Lipton, Bob Smalling, Bryan Martin, Bettye Gragg, Michael Efird, and Tim Kessler. Joining them were Jason Cater and his wife Sara, along with their son Tanner, as they expressed their interest in the poultry feed production industry.
Top photo: Southeast Arkansas Regional Intermodal Facilities Authority board members, from left, Michael Efird and John Lipton, along with other board members met with Jason, Sara and Tanner Cater of Monticello on Wednesday to discuss a possible poultry feed mill at the Intermodal site. Photo by Tim Kessler.
Jason Cater, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the poultry business, outlined his vision for the feed mill venture. He proposed a facility spanning approximately 40-50 acres and estimated that it would employ 10-12 individuals. Cater projected a significant investment of $10,000,000, with construction expected to take around a year.
The proposed feed mill aims to specialize in poultry feed production, with an estimated capacity of 4,000 tons per week. Cater revealed plans to collaborate with two to three major companies, further solidifying the potential impact and reach of the facility.
Drew County Judge Jessie Griffin expressed support for the initiative and pledged to explore potential tax incentives to encourage the project’s establishment. Chairman Lipton emphasized the importance of reviewing the Intermodal Act to identify any industrial incentives that could facilitate the realization of Cater’s proposed feed mill.
In addition to Cater’s proposal, SARIFA addressed other matters during the meeting. They discussed a letter of intent received from an industry interested in investing a substantial $250,000,000 and utilizing 100 acres of the Intermodal property. However, the letter had expired, leaving the status of the project uncertain.
The financial report provided during the meeting highlighted SARIFA’s anticipation of securing annual funding from the Arkansas Department of Transportation. However, they had yet to receive confirmation or the allocated funds.