Royal Plus sees 40 new jobs in Snow Hill
By Bob Lassahn

Worcester County based Royal Plus Disaster Kleenup has pledged to invest the necessary work in the Aluglass Property and to provide a total of 40 new jobs for a minimum of three years if the property is turned over to his company under a detailed agreement with the county. According to the company owner, Matt Odachowski, Royal Plus currently employs 56 people locally and is looking to expand operations. He also feels his company is uniquely qualified to deal with the lead paint, asbestos and mold that plague the dilapidated structure.

At the December 21 meeting of the Worcester County Commissioners a public hearing was held regarding the turnover of this county held property to Royal Plus, Inc. Commonly referred to as the Aluglass Property, the 7.98 acre tract with a 114,000 square foot building is located in the Town of Snow Hill.

The property as purchased by the county was for the purpose of conveying the site to Aluglass Packaging, Inc. for economic development. From 1995 until 2003 the company manufactured beverage labels and was a major employer in the area. In 2003 the operation was shut down when Aluglass consolidated their operations in Toronto, Canada. Other than some temporary county use, the building has remained vacant and is presently in need of extensive repairs.

According to attorney Hugh Cropper, speaking on behalf of Royal Plus, the only unresolved issue is the number of EDUs (equivalent dwelling units) necessary for the facility. The question remains as to whether the calculations will be based on a square footage formula or on the number of potential occupants. He indicates his client is working with the Town of Snow Hill to resolve the issue.

Commissioner Robert Cowger raised the first questions regarding the turnover when he recalled the county’s purchasing the property during his previous service as a commissioner. He questioned whether the county was making the right decision in giving away the property in return for the 40 jobs. Commissioner Louise Gulyas also questioned whether the acreage might prove valuable for workforce housing.

Commissioner Bud Church argued that the deal with Royal Plus was a win/win situation, noting that repairs to the building would exceed $1 million. Commissioner James Purnell pointed out that if the transfer does not take place the county could be faced with footing the bill for the extensive repairs.

Commissioner Judy Boggs also expressed doubt about the transfer and called for a work session to discuss the issue at length. Mr. Cropper pressed the commissioners to move quickly, since each passing day could further exacerbate the situation with the deteriorating roof.

In the final analysis the seven commissioners agreed unanimously to hold the work session suggested by Commissioner Boggs. No date has been set for the meeting and the matter is now on hold.

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