THE OHIO RAIL DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
OPERATIONS MEETING
January 9, 2003

CALL TO ORDER

Commissioner Tom McOwen convened the meeting at 9:05 a.m. Other committee members present were Herk Wolfe, Janet Weir Creighton and Nate Green.

Tower Automotive Products Company, Inc. (Tower) requested a $50,000 grant to defray the costs of a 3,200 ft. rail spur to serve its Bellevue, Ohio plant. Lou Jannazo, ORDC’s Chief of Project Development, provided an overview of the project and introduced Gary Stair, Economic Director for Bellevue, and Aaron Kimball and Michael Jenkins representing Tower. Mr. Stair stated that the City of Bellevue has experience in owning and maintaining rail infrastructure to accommodate some of its existing rail served customers. Mr. Jenkins mentioned that the Tower expansion project will, in turn, open up and provide synergies that will improve their business.

An overview of the proposed Rehabilitation Program Funding inputs was presented by Mr. Jannazo. Commissioner McOwen stated that using a three-year gauge to measure the maintenance history on a rail line might not be adequate. He also mentioned that a history of past maintenance performed by the owners is very important. Commissioner McOwen then asked if any of the railroad’s representatives present would like to provide any input or perspective. Jerry Jacobson, Ohio Central Railroad System, responded by saying that the Ohio short lines need financial assistance.

Mr. Jannazo provided a brief overview of the American Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials Report "Invest in America/Freight-Rail Bottom Line." He also provided copies of the Executive Summary and stated that anyone interested could call the ORDC office for a entire copy of the publication.

Commissioner McOwen adjourned the meeting at 10:00 a.m.