Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and Representative Carlos Gonzalez joined 90 Meat Outlet owner Jim Vallides for a “meat cutting” to celebrate the completion of its 15,000 square-foot expansion. The ceremony was held Thursday, May 12 at 10:00 a.m. at the outlet at 90 Avocado Street in the North End.
Latino Food Distributors, an affiliate of 90 Meat Outlet, built the expansion and moved its headquarters to the Avocado Street site. The move relocated eight jobs from a temporary leased site in West Springfield. Under the five-year Tax Increment Financing Agreement, the company invested approximately $1.5 million into the project, including renovations and equipment, and will create seven new jobs. They will continue to pay current taxes on the Meat Outlet building and received an exemption on the new construction, beginning at a full exemption during the first year, and down to 20% by the fifth year. The exemptions result in a savings of approximately $45,600 for the company over a five-year period, and a gain of $30,400 in taxes for the City of Springfield.
Vallides has also pledged to donate $1,000 to fund the ShotSpotter that covers the North End area of Springfield, all the way towards the Chicopee line.
Mayor Sarno stated, “Some great quality products and prices down there. Deeply appreciate Mr. Vallides’ continued belief and investment in our Springfield. Also, a big thank you for his generous donation towards our public safety ShotSpotter initiative.”