Valve company looks at Minden property

An international valve manufacturer based in Fresno, Calif., is looking to relocate to Minden, a business recruiter said Wednesday.

American AVK could add $17 million to the area economy, said Ron Weisinger, Northern Nevada Development Authority executive director. His announcement came during the organization's membership breakfast meeting at the Carson Nugget.

If the plans progress as scheduled, the company could build two production buildings in Minden - one at 170,000 square feet and the other at 70,000 square feet, he said.

"Our job is to provide companies with the answers to questions on the work force, workers' compensation and quality of life," Weisinger said. "We were competing with other places because of our business-friendly environment."

American AVK manufactures gate valves, fire hydrants and accessories for the water, wastewater, fire protection, and irrigation industries, according to the company Web site. Its products are used by utilities in North, South and Central America and the Caribbean. The Fresno manufacturing building is 120,000 square feet.

A company representative declined to comment until plans are finalized.

Contact reporter Becky Bosshart at bbosshart@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1212.