Business awarded tax abatement

A Sturgis-based business was awarded a 12-year tax abatement this week by members of the city commission.

Midwest Plastics Engineering Inc. on Wednesday was granted the abatement for an investment in new equipment. The addition will help retain 40 jobs at the facility and create 10 new positions, company officials said.

It is investing more than $190,000 in four injection-mold machine upgrades, material loaders and a cleanliness testing laboratory.

Cathy Knapp, of Southwest Michigan First, told commissioners there are only three labs like it in the state. Investment is making it possible for the company to serve the needs of a new automotive contract, she said.

Midwest provides parts that end up in the Ford Fusion and F-150.