Industrial prospects express interest

Despite ever-worsening unemployment rates, the county's collective economic mood shouldn't be so gloomy.

While it may not be a sign the local economy is about to recover, Cherokee County Development Board Director Jim Cook said several prospects have expressed an interest in occupying the county's two vacant manufacturing buildings.

Cook said one prospect has toured the recently-vacated Romeo Rim plant at the Cherokee Corporate Park. The maker of John Deere tractor parts closed last month, leaving more than 40 workers out of jobs.

The former Progressive Screen Engravers plant on Beech Street is an even more popular destination for prospects. Cook said he's shown that facility a couple of times. Progressive Screen Engravers shut its doors last fall.

Cook said although he's not permitted to release the identity of the prospects, he said an announcement on a new tenant could come at any time now.

"One could be occupied very soon," he said.