Since 1901, The Will-Burt Company has been a beacon of innovation and excellence, not just in Wayne County, but worldwide. What started as a modest operation in Orrville has blossomed into a worldwide leader in mobile elevation solutions, with offices and manufacturing facilities in the USA, the United Kingdom, Germany and Singapore.

From Repair Shop to Global Leader: The Will-Burt Company's Legacy of Innovation and Excellence

The Will-Burt Company traces its roots back to 1894 when the Cope brothers opened a general repair shop, later partnering with William Tschantz. "Will" Tschantz and "Burt" Cope began business as The Will-Burt Company in 1916.

Legislature enacted House Bill 949 in 1965, which provided funding for each of Ohio’s counties to create an airport. This was at the urging of former Ohio Governor, James A. Rhodes, who often traveled by air during his term. Starting with small piston powered aircraft at its opening in the 1970’s, the Wayne County Airport has seen tremendous growth since then.

Located on North Honeytown Road in Smithville, the Wayne County Airport was originally in Wooster on what is now Old Airport Road. Outgrowing the space, the county moved the airport to Smithville, but had also considered space in Orrville.

In 2016, the Wayne County Airport extended its runway to accommodate larger jets. “With the increased jet traffic, we added a parallel taxiway in 2020, making it easier for large jets to get off the runway,” said Matt Long, manager of the airport.

USDA Rural Energy for America Technical Assistance Grant Program

In May, Wayne County Economic Development, in partnership with Medina County Economic Development Corporation, was awarded $100,000 through the USDA’s REAP Technical Assistance Grant (TAG) Program. The intent of the funds is to help businesses complete ASHRAE energy audits and aid in applying for REAP project grants. Viridi, an official partner of Wayne County Economic Development, worked to submit this application and will be assisting in implementing the program to benefit eligible businesses in Medina and Wayne counties.

Energy Audits are a great way to help evaluate and prioritize energy efficiency projects, specifically retrofits or equipment replacements. For businesses that have multiple systems that need upgraded or have projects that are planned for future investment (within the next 2 years), utilizing this program will allow you to have a written report on the cost benefits of those projects as well as quantified energy savings. Level 2 ASHRAE Audits are also a great way to qualify your business for additional project funding or financing as an engineering study is often a pre-requisite.

Additionally, the TAG program funds can be used to cover the costs of a REAP project grant application for any projects identified or evaluated during the audit. REAP grants, through September 2024, cover 50% of project costs.

If you would like more information on how your business can take advantage of the TAG funds, please email Claire Wilson (claire@viridi.eco).