The council tabled the ordinance request. But one economic development venture started in the county got closer to reality.

Commissioner Dan Gregory said the county is looking to purchase a 20,000 square foot building on U.S. 50 near U.S. Gypsum for $200,000. A company, Stimulus Engineering, is looking to lease the building, creating 20 to 25 new jobs in the county.

“We think its a good thing for Martin County,” Gregory said. “We have talked about economic development tonight, and this is on the table right now.”

Discussed in an executive session earlier, the council was asked to encumber $25,000 to secure a loan. Gregory said local lenders were interested in the project and the funding would be needed in case the deal fell through.