New Ken considers applying for KOZ Mike Sunnucks City leaders in New Kensington, a Pittsburgh suburb, are wrestling with the thought of applying for state enterprise zone status. The economically troubled Westmoreland County town is considering asking Harrisburg to make about 25-acres of its downtown a Keystone Opportunity Zone.
Companies can invest or relocate in such areas and receive state and local tax breaks.
The catch for New Ken officials is whether the promise of future investment and jobs outweighs a loss of tax revenue. School Board President Mike Rodites said he will support a tax-free zone as long it fits into long range community development plans. Westmoreland County's economy has been hit hard by layoffs and closures of old economy plants by companies, such as Volkswagen, and other manufacturers. City council and school board will be meeting in the next few weeks to formally discuss the matter, though Rodites said he has yet to receive an official meeting request. The deadline for applying to the state for a new zone is Dec. 31st.