BRILLION, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Brillion Iron Works had been one of Calumet County’s largest employers, but last year, the facility was shut down, putting more than 300 people out of work.
Now, another large employer is looking to help figure-out what to do with the vacant building.
Ariens Company, has the go-ahead to work with the city’s redevelopment authority to buy the property.
Ariens makes products like snow blowers and mowing equipment.
The Brillion City Council threw its support behind the partnership during a meeting Monday evening.
The property’s owner is still listed as Brillion Iron Works on tax records, although before its closure, the business had been purchased by another company.
Ariens said there are no specific plans in place for the building.
The Brillion City Administrator, Lori Gosz tells FOX 11 Ariens may be looking to grow, which could have a positive impact on the area.
“They have some expansion needs themselves that they’re looking for in some areas located within the city of Brillion. There’s a huge impact as far as tax pays go, generating job opportunities, maybe some residential growth that may come out of all this.”
Ariens said it wants to make sure the property doesn’t fall into disrepair and become a blight on the city.
Brillion leaders say the next step will be to set up a meeting with the DNR to go over any potential environmental issues.
