IDA Approves Loan, Lease For Westfield Business

During Tuesday’s Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency Board of Director’s Meeting, members heard from Beverly Braley and Rachel McFeely, who were authorized for an AL Tech Loan and a straight lease transaction.

Braley and McFeely, who are Pennsylvania residents, are planning on opening Rae Enterprise Inc. in the village of Westfield. Rae Enterprise Inc., which will be operating under the name Nowinski Pierogies, plans to purchase the 15,000-square-foot Fireman Exempt building on Bourne Street for the manufacturing plant and headquarters.

The business plans to employ between 13 and 15 people for the first year, growing to more than 50 employees by its fifth year of operation. Positions will include production, maintenance, sanitation, quality assurance and office staff.

“Beverly and I have a very strong philosophy that your business is only as successful as your employees are,” McFeely said. “Our whole premise is our employees, the way they are treated and running a Christian philosophy. We want to provide an excellent standard of living for our employees, and we want to be a part of the community.” Rae Enterprise Inc. will produce six flavors of pierogies, including potato and cheese; potato and roasted garlic; potato and jalapeno; potato and sauerkraut; sauerkraut pierogie; and cheese pierogie. The women said they would eventually be interested in expanding the business to include other products.

The board authorized a straight lease transaction for the company, which would allow it to gradually pay taxes on the building, which has been off the tax rolls for a number of years, over a period of 10 years. It also authorized an AL Tech loan for the company in the amount of $275,000 over 20 years. Additionally, $265,000 was approved for machinery and equipment, as well as $100,000 for capital.

“We wish you all the success in the world,” said Michael Metzger, board chairman. “Thank you again for coming to Chautauqua County with your business.”