|
June 2007
Barry Barney - a man with a plan
In every community there are men and women who create the life they want to live. Barry Barney just happens to be one of those people and he has picked the perfect community to make his ideal life a reality. He is not only a man with a dream, he is a man with a plan. His intention to create a freshwater fish packaging operation in northern Minnesota is becoming a reality in International Falls.
Koochiching Fresh Water Fisheries will start operations in late June and employ 10 to 15 people in the first phase of development. Initially the plant will package fish purchased from Ontario to send to other fish processing operations. The second phase will include construction on a new building to house processing lines and the hiring of an additional 30 to 45 people. Long range plans include the operation of a second facility which will employ another 40 to 50 men and women. Ultimately, Barney expects to handle an estimated 250,000 fish per day. He intends to use 15 species of fish, including many currently underutilized species.
Barney is excited about his move to the area and the new business he is creating. "I just want to be in the North Country," states Barney, a St Cloud native. "Besides the beautiful natural scenery I love the attitude of the people." He looks forward to offering viable employment opportunities and rewarding his workers with a living wage plus benefits stating, "the work ethic up here is second to none."
Koochiching Fresh Water Fisheries is a great fit for the area. County Commissioner Mike Hanson comments that the Barney chose the area for his business because of the JOBZ program, and while the plan is ambitious, "he is not asking the government for the world." Additionally, Barney's experience operating a similar plant in Baudette, MN bodes well for the community. "We are optimistic that his plan will be realized and we are going to stand by him and support his efforts," says Commissioner Hanson.
The community as a whole is excited about Barry Barney's dream and his plan. In an area with so much to offer and the economic development resources to make it happen, Barney will certainly not be the only one to realize his dream as the community continues to flourish.
|
