Portman Announces DOD Grant to Assist Lima Community Affected by JSMC Drawdown

Press Release

Today, U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) announced that Allen County will receive a grant from the Department of Defense's (DOD) Office of Economic Adjustment (OEA) which assists communities whose workforce is affected by changes in Defense Department contracting or basing decisions.

The grant will provide assistance to those in the Lima community affected by the drawdown in production of Joint Systems Manufacturing Center (JSMC) and can go towards economic development, workforce consulting, workforce transition centers, and other planning services.

"I'm pleased to announce this grant as it will help the Lima community assist those affected by the JSMC drawdown," Portman stated. "It's crucial that we maintain a highly-skilled workforce so that we can connect people with jobs and remain prepared for any increased demand for production capabilities like the ones at the Lima tank plant."

This announcement comes after Portman set-up a meeting between Lima community leaders and DOD OEA officials and urged Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Frank Kendall to consider Lima for assistance. Portman has met with city and county leaders, plant management, and the United Auto Workers to discuss issues related to the Lima JSMC plant, including the OEA program.

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