In Plain City, we believe every new business, expansion, and milestone is worth celebrating. Our local economy thrives because of the vision, hard work, and investment of our business owners. Celebrating Success In Plain City, we believe every new business, expansion, and milestone is worth celebrating. Our local economy thrives because of the vision, hard work, and investment of our business owners, and we love nothing more than rolling out the giant scissors to mark the occasion. 1/2

Two counties, one mission: Success for your business and a thriving, vibrant populace. A Tale of Two Counties Situated in two counties and thriving as one community, Plain City leverages the strengths of Union and Madison Counties to create a business environment that’s both innovative and accessible. Whether you’re seeking cutting-edge industry clusters, streamlined development support, or room to grow, Plain City offers the unique advantage of dual-county opportunity in a single, connected community. Union County: Innovation & Industry Union County is Ohio’s fastest-growing county and one of the most economically dynamic areas in the state. Anchored by major employers in automotive manufacturing, corporate services, and smart mobility, the county is home to Honda's North American campus, Scotts Miracle-Gro, multiple R&D operations, and a growing number of logistics and technology firms. Union County boasts top-rated schools, well-equipped infrastructure, and an educated workforce, creating a pipeline of talent for employers of all sizes. Union County at a Glance Population: 71,721 Median HH Income: $109,506 Labor Force: 33,840 Major Employers: Honda North America, Scotts Miracle-Gro, Memorial Health Unemployment Rate: 3.7% Education: 95% high school graduation rate; 35% bachelor’s degrees or higher Economic Development Madison County: Accessibility & Affordability Madison County features a diverse economic landscape driven by manufacturing, automotive supply, logistics, and R&D, alongside a strong agricultural foundation. Home to major employers such as Stanley Electric, Jefferson Industries, XPO Logistics, and Battelle, the county experiences strong economic stability. Supported by I-70 and I-71, modern infrastructure, and a strategic location, Madison County delivers competitive advantages and a reliable workforce for growing businesses. Madison County at a Glance Population: 45,531 Median HH Income: $83,229 Labor Force: 21,232 Major Employers: Stanley Electric, Battelle, XPO Logistics, Mars, Amazon Unemployment Rate: 4.1% Education: 88% high school graduation rate; 22% bachelor’s degrees or higher Economic Development

Discover targeted growth opportunities and key industries we are actively welcoming to fuel our expanding local economy. Building on a Strong Foundation Plain City is proud of its diverse and thriving business community, from longtime local favorites to emerging entrepreneurs who bring innovation and vitality to our village. As our population grows and the regional economy evolves, so too does the demand for a wider variety of goods, services, and experiences. We are actively seeking new businesses that will complement our existing offerings, meet the needs of residents and visitors, and contribute to a vibrant, sustainable local economy. Whether you’re a startup, an expanding company, or an established firm looking for a welcoming community, Plain City offers a supportive environment ready to help your business succeed and grow alongside us. Key Business Opportunities Agritourism, Food & Artisan Retail Artisan bakeries and specialty food shops Craft breweries, wineries, and distilleries Farm-to-table restaurants and cafés Farmers markets and food cooperatives Local artisan goods and gift shops Seasonal farm experiences Specialty grocery Hospitality, Recreation & Wellness Bicycle shops and rental services Event venues and wedding barns Hotels, lodging, and glamping accommodations Kayak and canoe rental and launch facilities Outdoor guides and adventure outfitters Wellness centers and fitness studios Professional, Health & Community Service Childcare and early learning centers Hospitals, urgent care, clinics, other medical offices Legal, accounting, marketing, and business support Mental and behavioral health services Senior and assisted living services Specialty contractors Traditional Commercial & Services Automotive dealerships Casual dining, chain restaurants, and QSRs Entertainment and lifestyle venues General merchandise and big-box retail Grocery stores Home and garden centers Personal care services Pharmacies Pet care and animal services Professional offices Specialty services Manufacturing & Technology Advanced manufacturing Aerospace Automotive Energy Financial services Healthcare services and medical manufacturing Light logistics, warehousing, and distribution Smart mobility Research and development Technology Green & Sustainable Industries AgTech and sustainable farming innovation Eco-friendly product manufacturing Energy efficiency and green building services Green mobility and EV infrastructure Renewable energy research and development Sustainable landscaping and native plant nurseries

Along the scenic Big Darby and minutes from the Columbus market, Plain City offers an ideal destination for tourism, travelers, and visitors seeking unique experiences. The Business of Getting Away Plain City's Emerging Visitor Economy Plain City’s unique blend of rural heritage, natural assets, and proximity to Columbus creates the perfect setting for a growing visitor economy. Increasingly, entrepreneurs and investors are discovering that our small-town character pairs seamlessly with a large, affluent market just minutes away. Whether you're launching a destination retail concept, boutique lodging experience, or outdoor adventure service, Plain City offers local support to help your business thrive. A Natural Draw for Urban Escape Plain City’s location near the nationally designated Big Darby Creek and Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park makes it a natural destination for Columbus-area residents seeking scenic recreation and laid-back charm. The river’s exceptional biodiversity and protected status create a foundation for nature-based tourism including birding, kayaking, fishing, and outdoor photography. Recent investments in parkland acquisition, improvements, and preservation reflect the Village’s strong commitment to natural recreation. With nearly 200 acres of public parkland, these spaces are increasingly valued by both residents and visitors alike. Building on Heritage and Tradition The area’s Mennonite and agricultural roots are still visible in the food, architecture, and pace of life that define Plain City. This heritage is brought to life through businesses like Der Dutchman Restaurant & Bakery , The Red Hen Café , Yutzy’s Farm Market , The Orchard & Co. , The Cheese House , Bluescreek Farm Meats & Market , Miller Cabinet Company , and Millwest Amish Furniture . Together, they attract thousands annually for farm-to-table dining, fresh produce, and artisanal goods, forming the backbone of a growing agritourism sector. Scenic Routes and Covered Bridges Plain City is a key stop along the Big Darby Plains Scenic Byway , a route that winds through scenic farmland, quiet rural towns, and a collection of iconic covered bridges , several of which are located just outside the village. These bridges are a beloved part of the local landscape, attracting bus tours, cyclists, and photographers from across the country. Their cultural importance is reflected in a new downtown mural, which prominently features one of the bridges as a symbol of the community’s rural charm and historic character. Public Square: A New Hub for Experience In 2024, the Village of Plain City broke ground on The Public Square, a major downtown project anchored by a restored 1880s railroad depot. This public space will support concerts, festivals, and weekend markets, helping businesses tap into growing visitor traffic. A year-round indoor/outdoor marketplace is currently in development, set to build on the success of the Plain City Farmers Market while expanding opportunities for year-round vendors, retailers, and food entrepreneurs. Trails as Economic Infrastructure Plain City has made trail development a strategic priority, recognizing trails as both recreational assets and vital economic infrastructure. A newly constructed trailhead marks a key step in the village’s long-term vision to become a community where trails are seamlessly integrated with local businesses, community events, and hospitality amenities. Planning is ongoing to extend the Heritage Trail, a six-mile multi-use path that will eventually connect Plain City to Hilliard and the broader Central Ohio trail system. As part of its commitment to walkability and connectivity, the village now requires new developments to include trails and pathways. A Strategic Opportunity for Experience-Based Investment Plain City is at the start of a visitor economy transformation, with demand rising from urban and suburban residents looking to reconnect with food, nature, and local culture. The community actively welcomes new ventures including: Hotels and lodging Trail-side cafés and rental shops Event venues and wedding barns Farm experiences and farm-to-fork dining Artisan makers, breweries, and specialty retail Outdoor guides and equipment suppliers Why It Matters for Business With access to an affluent, experience-seeking market just minutes away in Columbus, your business venture in Plain City can serve both weekend travelers and loyal locals. Supportive zoning, infrastructure investment, and a community of like-minded businesses make it easy to launch and grow in this emerging sector.

Discover vibrant residential development opportunities designed to support a growing community and workforce. Residential Development A Growing Market The Columbus Region is experiencing historic demand for residential development - and we're at the forefront. But we aren't just reacting to growth; we're leading the way in how it's planned and delivered. By partnering with developers who share our commitment to long-term success, we're shaping a future that transforms residential demand into vibrant, sustainable, and high-quality neighborhoods. Current Residential Developers A Proven Track Record Our momentum is clear, with more than 4,500 residential units currently under construction or approved. This development will increase our population from near 5,000 now to an anticipated 12,000 to 15,000 over the next decade. Developers choose to partner with Plain City because we align infrastructure and community vision from the start. Our Strategic Focus To ensure our community remains resilient and multi-generational, we prioritize a balanced housing mix. This includes executive-style homes for the region’s growing professional workforce, alongside attainable housing for the essential professionals who keep our community running. We are also committed to quality senior living options for our long-term residents and vibrant, mixed-use neighborhoods designed to attract the workforce of tomorrow. A Commitment to Partnership We do not just approve permits; we curate successful neighborhoods. By working with developers to mitigate the impacts of residential growth on our schools, public safety, parks, and infrastructure, we ensure the future success of our community. If you are a residential developer committed to long-term value over short-term gain, let's build the future of Plain City together.

Plain City offers convenient access to Central Ohio and beyond. Located just minutes from Columbus, explore our exceptional highway, air, and freight connectivity. Highways Plain City offers exceptional access to Central Ohio's major highways. Directly served by US-42, US-33, and OH-161, businesses and residents have quick and easy access to major interstates: I-270 (10 minutes), I-70 (20 minutes), I-71 (25 minutes), and I-75 (50 minutes). Airports When it comes to air travel, the sky’s the limit. Plain City is within a short distance of John Glenn Columbus International Airport (40 minutes) and the heavy cargo capabilities of Rickenbacker International Airport (45 minutes). Additionally, Dayton International Airport is reachable in about an hour. Rail & Water The Columbus Region is a national hub for logistics and distribution. Beyond highway and air travel, businesses are well-positioned near major regional freight assets, including the CSX Buckeye Yard and the Norfolk Southern Rickenbacker Intermodal Terminal, with access to international shipping via the Port of Toledo on Lake Erie.

Explore the tools, local and state support, and financial programs that can help your business grow and succeed. Resources & Incentives Balancing Opportunity with Civic Responsibility Plain City is shaping its economic future by welcoming innovation, supporting targeted industries, and encouraging quality job creation. With a focus on strategic partnerships, workforce readiness, and a pro-business approach, the community is committed to smart, sustainable growth that reflects its small-town character and values. We work with businesses to structure incentive packages that reflect the economic impact of each project. Our development team can provide a preliminary overview of potential incentives, and formal proposals are considered through an internal review process. Once reviewed, recommendations are presented to Village Council for approval. In many cases, final agreements can be completed in under 90 days, depending on meeting schedules and project complexity. We also coordinate with state partners to help businesses access additional resources, such as tax credits, infrastructure grants, workforce training programs, and low-interest loans. Our team can connect you with JobsOhio and OneColumbus to explore these opportunities. If you're considering a project in Plain City, contact us to start the conversation. Let’s discuss how we can help support your investment. And for more detailed information on available programs, visit the Village’s website. Local Incentives & Resources Community Reinvestment Area Three CRAs offer property tax abatements to qualifying residential, commercial, office, and industrial projects. The final terms and abatement amounts vary by location and project. Impact Fee Reduction Program Eligible industrial or office projects may qualify for partial reductions in roadway, safety, park, and zoning impact fees to support responsible development and job creation. Tax Increment Financing The Village can designate specific geographic areas as TIF Districts to support the funding of eligible public infrastructure projects that promote community growth. Fire Suppression Fee Reduction Certain projects in the Uptown District may qualify for reduced water capacity fees tied to new fire suppression systems, supporting reinvestment and public safety New Community Authority NCAs support the creation of well-planned, economically viable communities by issuing bonds to finance specific public improvements and essential community facilities. Annexation Enhancement Program This program promotes sustainable, cohesive growth while preserving greenspace and farmland by offering benefits to property owners considering annexation. State of Ohio Resources A wide range of financial programs are available through the Ohio Department of Development and JobsOhio to support businesses starting, relocating, or expanding in Ohio. These state-level incentives can help with job creation, infrastructure, research and development, and access to capital. Ohio Job Creation Tax Credit (OJCTC) A refundable tax credit for companies that create at least 10 new jobs with $660,000+ in annual payroll. Roadwork Development (629) Program Grant funding for public road improvements tied to job creation or retention. 166 Direct Loan Program Low-interest loans for real estate, construction, or equipment purchases—up to $1.5 million. Ohio Enterprise Bond Fund Long-term, fixed-rate bond financing for large capital projects—up to $10 million. R&D Investment Loan Fund Loans for research and development, paired with commercial activity tax credits of up to $150,000 annually. Innovation Ohio Loan Fund Capital financing for tech-oriented companies in targeted industries—up to 75% of eligible project costs. USDA Rural Development Loan Guarantees Financing for rural businesses in areas like real estate, equipment, and working capital. Foreign Trade Zone #138 Duty-free import and export advantages for businesses operating within the FTZ. Economic Development Incentive Policy To promote business growth and development, create new jobs and payroll, retain existing businesses and jobs, and encourage private investment, the Village has developed and adopted the Plain City Economic Development Incentive Policy (EDIP). The EDIP allows the Village to negotiate with businesses that are seeking to access various economic development incentives in order to expand or locate within the Village. The purpose of the EDIP is to streamline the Village’s economic development incentive process so that the Village can respond to businesses promptly. Accordingly, the EDIP provides thresholds to promote a more efficient and consistent approach to the economic development incentive process while minimizing the potential impacts of incentives on taxing authorities. The EDIP serves as a guideline for negotiation purposes and supplements the requirements set forth by the State of Ohio. CLICK TO DOWNLOAD

Minutes northwest of Columbus with central access to major highways, airports, and key destinations, positioning your business for seamless connectivity. Why Plain City? Plain City is where business potential meets community charm. Positioned at the crossroads of economic momentum and livable quality, Plain City offers a rare blend of strategic location, skilled workforce, and a forward-thinking local government ready to support your vision. Whether you're launching a startup, expanding a regional operation, or scouting your next headquarters, Plain City is ready to grow with you. A Pro-Business Environment We believe in making it easy to do business. Plain City offers responsive local leadership, fast-track permitting, and a flexible approach to incentives. Our staff works closely with developers and business owners to ensure projects move quickly and efficiently. With clear processes and a spirit of partnership, Plain City is the kind of place where businesses are welcomed, supported, and set up to thrive from day one. Room to Grow From prime development acreage to infill opportunities downtown, Plain City offers a diverse range of business locations. Our newly planned commercial and employment corridors offer infrastructure, access, and flexibility for long-term expansion. Whether you're looking to open a single storefront or develop a multi-acre site, we’ll help you find the right fit for your vision and connect you to the right resources. A Growing, Skilled Workforce Plain City is surrounded by one of Ohio’s most dynamic labor markets. With new housing, top-ranked schools, and a high quality of life, the area draws skilled professionals and young families alike. Businesses enjoy access to a growing workforce, including talent from nearby universities and technical schools. We make it easy to recruit and retain the people who will power your long-term growth. Quality of Life We’re proud of our small-town character, but Plain City offers big advantages. Employees enjoy short commutes, access to parks and trails, excellent schools, and safe neighborhoods. Our revitalizing downtown, growing events calendar, and family-friendly amenities help businesses attract and retain talent. It’s a community where people invest in each other, and where your employees will want to live, work, and stay. Strategic Location Plain City is just minutes from Columbus, with access to US-33, US-42, and I-270. We're ideally situated near major interstates, airports, and logistics hubs, placing your business within reach of over a million people. Whether your focus is distribution, professional services, or advanced manufacturing, our location offers the connectivity you need to succeed in a competitive global economy. Infrastructure That Works We and our partners are investing in the future with modern infrastructure to support business growth. Recent upgrades to water, sewer, roadways, electricity, and natural gas ensure reliable service and capacity. We work closely with utility providers and regional partners to align infrastructure with development needs so your business has the foundation it needs to build, expand, and operate without costly delays or uncertainty.

Access a highly-skilled talent pool and a growing workforce equipped with the education and expertise your business needs to excel. Education & Talent Plain City offers direct access to one of the most dynamic and educated labor markets in the Midwest. With strong local schools, nationally recognized career training programs, and top-tier universities nearby, we’re building a talent pipeline that supports business at every stage. Whether you need skilled trades, technical expertise, or professional leadership, you’ll find people here who are ready to work and ready to stay. Jonathan Alder Local Schools Jonathan Alder Local Schools serve the Plain City area with a reputation for strong academics, engaged teachers, and a supportive community. The district enrolls approximately 2,200 students across five schools and covers a 120-square-mile area that includes parts of Madison and Union counties. It consistently ranks among the top-performing districts in Central Ohio, offering a well-rounded education that prepares students for both college and careers. Advanced Placement courses, career exploration programs, and extracurricular opportunities in the arts, athletics, and leadership give students the chance to excel in and out of the classroom. As the community grows, Jonathan Alder remains focused on developing responsible, motivated graduates who are ready to contribute to the workforce and the community. Tolles Career Center Tolles Career & Technical Center is a regional workforce training leader, serving students from seven school districts across a six-county area in Central Ohio. Located just minutes from Plain City, Tolles enrolls approximately 900 high school students annually and offers adult education programs for career changers and workforce upskilling. Its modern 90-acre campus is equipped with industry-standard labs and training facilities designed to meet evolving employer needs. Tolles offers nationally recognized career pathways in high-demand fields such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, construction, cybersecurity, business logistics, and engineering. Through real-world certifications, internships, and early college credit, students graduate with the tools to enter the workforce immediately - or pursue further education. For local businesses, Tolles is more than a school. It’s a long-term partner in building and sustaining skilled talent. Other K-12 Districts In addition to Jonathan Alder Local Schools, families and employees living near Plain City benefit from access to several top-performing neighboring school districts. Fairbanks Local Schools , a smaller district just northwest of Plain City, is known for academic excellence and strong community support. To the east, Dublin City Schools , one of the highest-rated districts in Ohio, offers International Baccalaureate programs, advanced STEM options, and college-credit pathways. Hilliard City Schools , just to the south of Plain City, adds further depth with career exploration programs and a focus on innovation. Together, these districts enhance the region’s talent pipeline and provide Plain City employers with access to a well-educated, future-ready workforce. Higher Education Plain City is surrounded by a powerful network of more than 50 colleges, universities, and technical schools, enrolling over 130,000 students across the Central Ohio region. The Ohio State University, one of the nation’s top public research institutions, is just a short drive away, offering world-class programs in engineering, agriculture, business, and health sciences. Also nearby are Ohio University's Dublin Campus, Columbus State Community College, Franklin University, and a range of liberal arts and career-focused institutions. These schools produce career-ready graduates, provide flexible workforce training, and offer employers a direct connection to emerging talent across nearly every industry. For businesses in Plain City, this means reliable access to the people, skills, and innovation needed to grow.

Plain City is just minutes from Columbus, the fastest-growing region in the Midwest. Regional Excellence Regional Strength Meets Small Town Opportunity Plain City is proud to be part of one of the Midwest’s most dynamic and collaborative regions. Surrounded by respected communities, we share in the Columbus Region’s strong economy, excellent schools, and high quality of life. What sets Plain City apart is our unique balance, combining the space, charm, and livability of a small town with direct access to the opportunities of the fastest-growing regions in the Midwest. Whether you’re looking to raise a family, grow a business, or invest in new development, Plain City delivers the benefits of regional connectivity alongside the distinct advantages of a close-knit, forward-thinking community. Columbus Region Suburban Comparison Community Population Median HH Income Median Home Value Average Commute (Mins) Bachelor’s Degree Median Age Income Tax Rate Plain City 4,687 $87,018 $539,000 21 34.3% 40 1.5% Delaware 46,521 $92,928 $419,900 26 45.6% 36 1.9% Canal Winchester 10,060 $112,474 $377,500 27 44.8% 44 2.0% Dublin 49,456 $155,282 $612,000 23 65.8% 42 2.0% Gahanna 35,544 $106,004 $379,960 20 53.0% 39 2.5% Grove City 44,019 $90,888 $383,000 23 35.3% 40 2.0% Hilliard 38,832 $122,864 $425,000 22 60.2% 35 2.5% London 10,743 $60,364 $288,000 23 18.4% 41 1.5% Marysville 29,276 $92,490 $376,000 24 32.7% 36 1.5% New Albany 11,604 $232,524 $592,795 22 78.9% 41 2.0% Powell 14,613 $191,250 $522,150 23 76.2% 43 2.0% Reynoldsburg 42,897 $71,381 $305,724 25 32.1% 38 2.5% Sunbury 9,705 $103,774 $369,625 26 44.6% 33 1.0% Upper Arlington 36,140 $150,993 $634,091 19 79.2% 40 2.5% West Jefferson 4,250 $64,321 $270,000 25 14.3% 38 1.0% Westerville 38,612 $107,054 $391,859 20 58.3% 40 2.0% Worthington 14,649 $124,734 $499,000 21 66.1% 42 2.5% Data Disclaimer: The information presented on this page was compiled from reliable public sources, including U.S. Census data, regional economic reports, and community profiles. While we strive to ensure accuracy and relevance, figures are subject to change and may contain minor discrepancies. We are not responsible for any errors or omissions in the data provided. Plain City: Breaking Down The Statistics A Growing Community with Fresh Energy Population: 4,687 Median Age: 40 We are attracting a new generation of residents who bring fresh ideas, strong spending power, and a long-term commitment to the community. With direct access to major job centers and a family-friendly atmosphere, Plain City provides the perfect environment for building a life, launching a business, and contributing to a thriving regional economy. Lower Taxes, Higher Value Income Tax Rate: 1.5% Plain City offers one of the lowest municipal income tax rates in the region, helping residents and employers keep more of what they earn. In today’s economy, every dollar counts, and we are committed to protecting taxpayer dollars by investing strategically in infrastructure, services, and community growth. This thoughtful approach ensures more money stays in your wallet without sacrificing the quality and amenities that make Plain City a great place to live and work. Ready for the Economy of Tomorrow Plain City offers a unique advantage as a rapidly growing community building the future from the ground up. Unlike places struggling with aging infrastructure or unplanned development, we are investing now to support how people live and work today - and tomorrow. Our growth is intentional, infrastructure-focused, and designed to attract the workforce and companies of the future. Poised for Workforce Growth Bachelor’s Degree or Higher: 34.3% Our workforce is growing, and so is our commitment to supporting all career paths. Not every job requires a four-year degree, so we invest in college and career-ready programs that prepare residents for successful careers. Whether you’re designing vehicles or building bridges, there is a place for you in Plain City’s economy. Your Time Matters Average Commute: 21 minutes Why spend your time stuck in traffic when you could be relaxing at home with family or catching up with friends? Located near US-33, US-42, and I-270, Plain City offers quick and easy access to major employment hubs throughout the region without the usual traffic headaches. Premium Living Median Home Value: $539,000 Plain City offers more affordable home values than many nearby suburbs while delivering exceptional quality and desirability. Higher home values reflect strong community investment, excellent schools, and well-maintained neighborhoods, which protect your property’s long-term value. Enjoy spacious new homes, generous lots, and safe neighborhoods that combine modern living with a relaxed, rural atmosphere.

Historic charm, top-tier schools, and vibrant community amenities that offer the exceptional lifestyle your employees want and your business needs to thrive. Love Where You Live Plain City is not only a smart place to do business, it’s also a great place to call home. As our village grows, we remain committed to the values that make this community special: welcoming neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a pace of life that makes room for what matters most. Whether you're relocating a company, a team, or your own family, Plain City offers the comfort, connectivity, and quality of life to support your next chapter. Home Sweet Home Plain City offers a rapidly growing housing market that appeals to families, young professionals, and seasoned workers alike. From modern new builds to rural estates and historic homes, there are options for most lifestyles and income levels. Competitive prices, safe neighborhoods, and a growing inventory make it easy for both employees and business owners to live close to where they work. Built-In Belonging Plain City offers more than just a place to live, it offers a sense of belonging. This is the kind of town where neighbors look out for each other, where newcomers are greeted by name, and where families of all shapes and sizes feel at home. Whether you're moving key staff or attracting new talent, Plain City provides the kind of authentic, connected community that makes people want to stay. Here, “Main Street, USA” isn’t a slogan, it’s everyday life. A Smart Start Plain City is served by Jonathan Alder Local Schools, a high-performing public district known for academic excellence, career exploration, and strong community support. As proud home of the Pioneers, the district fosters a strong sense of identity and school spirit. Families are drawn to its safe, engaged learning environments, and so are employers seeking to attract and retain top-tier talent. Small Town Living, Big City Access Just minutes from the vibrant energy of Columbus, Plain City offers the best of both worlds: laid-back living with big city access. Here, today’s workforce enjoys a high quality of life and seamless connectivity for remote and hybrid work while businesses benefit from attracting talent without giving up easy access to regional markets and resources. Main Street, Recharged Downtown Plain City (or Uptown as we call it), blends historic charm with modern energy. Brick storefronts house coffee shops, boutiques, and locally owned restaurants that offer employees a welcoming midday break and families a place to gather after hours. For business owners, Uptown is more than a destination. It is a growing hub of local entrepreneurship and community connection. Room to Roam New multi-use trails, neighborhood parks, and nearby natural treasures like the Big Darby Creek and Glacier Ridge Metro Park make staying active easy throughout the year. Whether biking to downtown, coaching youth soccer on Saturday mornings, or kayaking scenic waterways, Plain City offers the open spaces and fresh air that help employees recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Places to Gather From summer farmers markets and fall festivals to holiday parades and Christmas Under the Clock, Plain City’s calendar is filled with traditions that bring newcomers and long-time residents together. Whether volunteering, cheering on the Pioneers under the Friday night lights, or sharing a meal on a patio, employees and families alike find opportunities to connect, build relationships, and feel part of a close-knit community.

Get to know our team, our vision for economic growth, and our dedication to building a thriving, connected community. We Mean Business Our Role Plain City is serious about smart, sustainable growth—and it shows. As our community evolves, we’ve built a dedicated economic development team focused on strategic land use, business support, and infrastructure planning. In 2024, Village Council established the Plain City Area Development Corporation (PCADC), a community improvement corporation built to drive long-term economic success. We serve as your primary resource for business attraction, expansion, and retention—working closely with regional and state partners to align priorities, fast-track answers, and deliver real solutions that keep your project moving forward. Contact Us When it comes to our economic development program, we offer one-stop shopping for businesses looking to relocate or expand to Plain City. Contact us to get started. 614.873.3527 Jason Stanford Development Director Email Mr. Stanford has served as Development Director for Plain City since 2022. A seasoned economic development professional with 20 years of experience, he leads business outreach, marketing, and economic analysis, helping drive job creation and private investment through lead generation, partnerships, and community engagement. He is a member of IEDC and the Ohio Economic Development Association. Derek Hutchinson Planner Email Mr. Hutchinson supports economic development through zoning administration, site plan review, and growth management. With several years of planning and development experience, he has a strong track record of guiding successful projects in growing communities and has led zoning and planning efforts in Plain City since 2022. He is a member of the American Planning Association. Colin Powers Zoning Specialist Email Mr. Powers joined Plain City in 2023. He holds a B.S. in City and Regional Planning from The Ohio State University and plays a key role in supporting economic development by managing zoning permits, assisting with plan reviews, and streamlining the application process. He is a member of the Ohio Code Enforcement Officials Association and is committed to ensuring efficient, code-compliant development in the community. Plain City Area Development Corporation In January 2024, Plain City Village Council authorized the creation of the Plain City Area Development Corporation to serve as the Village’s designated community improvement corporation. The PCADC has the authority to apply for and administer grants, purchase and sell real property, and create specialized business programs that support the community’s economic development. The PCADC is subject to Ohio’s Sunshine Laws and public records requirements. The PCADC Board of Director meets at 8:30 AM on the second Wednesday of January, March, July, September, and November at 8:30 AM at the Plain City Municipal Building. Meeting notices and materials are available on the Village's website . Board of Directors Mr. Jim Eudaily, Council Member Mrs. Haley Lupton, Administrator Mrs. Renee Sonnett, Finance Director Mr. Jason Stanford, Development Director Mr. Shane Hoffman, Resident Mr. Mark Keene, Resident Ms. Shelby Powell, Resident Meet Our Team Legal Authority Community Improvement Corporations are authorized under Chapter 1724 of the Ohio Revised Code: “A corporation not for profit may be organized…for the sole purpose of advancing, encouraging and promoting the industrial, economic, commercial and research development of a community or an area." Services We're Happy to Provide Site Selection Assistance We help identify suitable properties based on your specific needs, whether it's access to infrastructure, zoning compatibility, or proximity to workforce and transportation. Demographic and Economic Data Our team provides tailored reports on population trends, workforce statistics, consumer spending, and regional market insights to support your business planning or investment decision. Financial Incentive Packaging We guide businesses through available local, county, and state incentive programs, including tax abatements, grants, low-interest loans, Tax Increment Financing (TIF), Community Reinvestment Areas (CRA), and Job Creation Tax Credits. Interagency Coordination We organize and facilitate meetings with relevant governmental agencies, utility providers, and development partners to help navigate regulations, infrastructure extensions, and project approvals. Workforce Development Support We connect businesses to local workforce resources, including schools, training programs, and job placement services, and help develop customized strategies to attract and retain talent. Permitting and Zoning Assistance We act as a liaison throughout the permitting process, helping interpret zoning regulations, expedite reviews, and coordinate with building inspectors and plan examiners to keep your project moving forward. Public Infrastructure Partnerships For qualifying projects, we may explore options to support public infrastructure improvements such as roads, water/sewer extensions, or broadband access to help make sites development-ready. Marketing and Promotion We promote available properties and investment opportunities through regional and state marketing channels, site selection networks, and online media. Long-Term Partnership Our commitment doesn't end when the ribbon is cut. We provide ongoing support through business retention visits, issue resolution, and community engagement opportunities to ensure your success over the long term.