The Illinois Department of Commerce has named Randolph County and Chester “enterprise zones,” designated as such to improve commerce by making local businesses eligible for state and local tax incentives.
Chester Mayor Tom Page made the announcement during a city council meeting earlier this month. The new designation will take effect in January 2020.
Page additionally announced that Monroe County is also approved. The program will allow businesses to be provided with tax incentives and exemptions throughout the zoned areas of Chester. They will be able to expand their locations and buy materials without paying local or state sales tax.
In addition to the sales tax exemptions, businesses can apply for a utility tax rate exemption of up to 5 percent, as well as a 6.25-percent state tax exemption on personal property that is used in the manufacturing process.
The Enterprise Zone project has been helmed by City Clerk Bethany Berner and the Chester Planning Commission. Page congratulated both parties on their dedication to the project.
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