by James Coulter
A world-renowned glass and window company could soon be setting up shop in Lake Wales now that the City has approved a $663K+ proposal to buy four lots in Longleaf Business Park.
At their meeting on Tues. Feb. 11, board members of the Lake Wales Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) voted unanimously to approve a bid proposal from Uni-K Fenestration, LLC for the amount of $663,050.
The proposal was for the company to purchase four of the five lots at Longleaf Business Park, located near the intersection of US Highway 27 and Hunt Brothers Road.
The bid was made in response to an advertisement by the Lake Wales CRA, according to the city agenda memo, “to purchase and develop five (5) vacant parcels of land, or any combination thereof, in the Longleaf Business Park.”
City Manager James Slaton explained that the proposal was for Uni-K to purchase and develop four of five lots at the business park within two phases. Phase one would be to set up a warehouse for distribution, while phase two would set up a manufacturer.
Two other bids had been submitted by two other prospective companies. Danpol Developments submitted a proposal to buy all five lots for $720,000, while Taylor Industries offered a bid to purchase all five lots for $196,257.85.
City Manager Slaton explained that Uni-K Fenestration was the best choice because the company was willing to set up shop right away, as the company has expressed its intent to “go vertical” in 18 months and start manufacturing in 36 months.
“We chose Uni-K because they are ready to set up shops and employ people,” he said. “I think it is in our best interest to do business with the business that wants to set up shop.”
Uni-K Fenestration, according to its website, claims to be a company “where innovation meets excellence in the aluminum and glass industry.” Recently, its booth was awarded “Best in Show” at GlassBuild America 2024.
Following a video presentation of the company, Commissioner Carol Gillespie said that Uni-K appears to be serving “high rollers in the market.” Deputy Manager Robin Gibson said that the company would prove to be a “real breakthrough” with a “good incentive.”
All five board members voted unanimously to approve the proposal through a roll call vote. Now that it has been approved, the CRA Executive Director has been authorized to execute the attached Letter of Intent, subsequent Sale and Purchase agreement, and any other required documentation.
