Commission OKs letter of intent to support Takako America job expansion

Reno County commissioners unanimously authorized the chair to sign a letter of intent on April 22 that would make Takako (Tokai) Carbon America eligible for the county's job-performance incentive program as it expands local operations.

Representatives from Greater Hutch Economic Development and Takako described plans to add a minimum of 10 new positions over the next year, with starting wages around $18 per hour and some positions paying up to about $21 per hour. Greater Hutch's Lauren Storm said the county's program offers roughly $1,000 per new job at the lower wage tier and up to $1,500 if the position reaches higher pay levels.

Company executive Bill Kunze outlined worker benefits including automatic raises on a 90-day cadence, 401(k) matching up to 6%, full insurance coverage and paid holidays. Kunze said Takako typically onboards through a temp agency for 30–90 days before hiring full-time and that recent equipment purchases have increased the company's need for additional staff.

Commissioners asked clarifying questions about program rules and whether changes under consideration would affect Takako's eligibility; staff confirmed Takako had not previously received the incentive and would qualify under current policy. The motion to approve the letter of intent passed on a roll-call vote with all five commissioners recorded as voting yes.

The county will return to the commission with a final agreement documenting the number of jobs and exact incentive amounts after details are negotiated with the company.