OCEDC Finishes FY 2025 Strong

10/01/2025

Over the past year, the Okeechobee County Economic Development Corporation (OCEDC) has worked to bring new jobs, investment, and opportunities to our community.

Since October 2024, several companies—including WSF Gas, Landmark Precast, Advanced Medical Sanitation, Southeast Ready-Mix Concrete, Alaris Aero, and 7 Brew—have chosen to invest in Okeechobee County. Together, these businesses have committed more than $17 million in private investment and have already created 36 new jobs for local residents. An additional 76 jobs are expected as these businesses continue to grow.

Supporting existing businesses is just as important as attracting new ones. Two longtime local employers, Westlake Royal Roofing and Nexair, are expanding their operations in Okeechobee. These expansions represent more than $21 million in additional investment, the retention of 150 existing jobs, and the creation of 40 new positions. These projects demonstrate that businesses can not only succeed in Okeechobee—they can continue to grow here.

The OCEDC is also actively working with more than 30 businesses and development projects that are considering investing in Okeechobee County. One of the most promising opportunities is the Okeechobee County Airport Commerce Park, where several projects are currently under review. If finalized, these projects could bring more than $22 million in additional investment and approximately 80 new jobs to our community.

Economic development is about more than buildings and businesses—it is also about people. Through the Okeechobee Junior Leaders Skills Program, 73 local students participated in leadership development, career exploration, and workforce readiness activities this summer. These experiences help prepare the next generation for future career opportunities right here in Okeechobee County.

At the same time, the OCEDC is working with state and regional partners to prepare industrial and commercial sites for future development. Having ready-to-build sites helps Okeechobee compete for new businesses and jobs when opportunities arise.

The results of these efforts are significant. More than $38 million in private investment has already been committed to Okeechobee County through new business locations and business expansions. If current projects move forward, the total potential investment in the pipeline exceeds $60 million. Altogether, these efforts have already supported 226 jobs in Okeechobee County, with more than 150 additional jobs projected in the coming years.

Economic development is a long-term investment in our community's future. By supporting local businesses, attracting new employers, preparing sites for growth, and investing in workforce development, we are helping create opportunities that benefit Okeechobee residents today and for generations to come.