Paulding Putnam is proud to celebrate the progress made through its first Rural Economic Development Loan & Grant (REDLG) project with the Village of Ottoville, helping boost local job creation and economic growth across the region. 
In 2022, Paulding Putnam provided a $360,000 zero-interest loan to the Village of Ottoville to expand infrastructure at its industrial park through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s REDLG program. The project aimed to enhance the village’s ability to attract and retain businesses — a goal that’s already paying off.
Today, 30 acres are fully developed and shovel-ready, with completed water and sewage systems and a new access road leading into the park. This development sets the stage for future growth and increased employment opportunities for the region.
“This loan has saved us a big chunk of money,” said Ottoville Mayor Ron Miller. “We followed procedures, and it all worked out perfectly. Our site is shovel-ready to go.”
The Ottoville industrial park is already home to several key employers, including Progressive Stamping, Inc. and Miller Precision, which together provide more than 350 local jobs, including metal fabrication, prototyping, die stamping, and robotic welding. The village hopes to see that number continue to rise.
“It helps support our budget, roads, factories, and income in general,” the mayor added. “Projects like this strengthen the foundation of our local economy.”
According to Ottoville’s Fiscal Officer Michelle Weyrauch, investments like this are crucial for keeping small towns vibrant: “People come here for the small atmosphere but don’t want to travel to Toledo or other big cities for work. Young people are moving back to small towns but want nice schools and other quality of life features.”
Renee Hull, Paulding Putnam Chief Financial Officer, said the co-op’s participation in the REDLG program aligns with its mission of supporting the community.
“At Paulding Putnam, we’re more than just your local electric and fiber internet cooperative — we’re a partner in community growth,” Hull said. “Programs like REDLG give us the opportunity to help our members and local leaders turn big ideas into real results. We’re working to make the process as smooth as possible and to provide support every step of the way.”
The success of the Ottoville project marks a strong start for Paulding Putnam’s involvement in REDLG loans, paving the way for future projects that will help strengthen communities across Paulding, Putnam, and Van Wert counties in Ohio as well as Allen and Adams counties in Indiana and beyond.
To learn more about the USDA REDLG program and how Paulding Putnam can assist local villages, cities, businesses, and organizations with large funding projects, contact Renee at 800-686-2357 or email member_services@ppec.coop. Organizations do not need to be members of the co-op to apply.