Subdivisions, trailer parks and housing in general seem to be staples on local government agendas these days.

County Council just denied a request for a new trailer park near Louis Rich's manufacturing plant, which by the end of this year will have added on approximately 1,000 new workers since its expansion began in 2006. City Council made quality housing its top priority, embarking on a neighborhood study and working with developers to bring in mid-range housing.

County Economic Director Teresa Powers said simply that Newberry is experiencing “growing pains.” Louis Rich's substantial expansion, combined with other industry growth, means more residents and therefore more housing needs.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for Newberry,” Powers said. “Louis Rich is our largest employer. They provide good jobs and benefits. It is exciting to see them continue to grow and prosper and do so well.”

While Powers hopes Louis Rich's expanded work force will give jobs to some persons already living in the county, she recognizes Newberry will have to make room for new faces as well. However, she said it's a chicken and egg situation.

Housing is driven by the job market, but new businesses and industries won't locate without ample housing. Which comes first?

In Newberry, it seems, business comes first. If housing isn't available, workers commute. According to 2006 data from the US Department of Commerce, 24 percent of jobs in Newberry County are held by non-residents. Most come from the southernly bordering counties of Richland, Lexington and Saluda.

However, the housing market is catching up to job growth.

Powers said a 50 to 60-lot subdivision is pending on Oxner Road. A new 30-home subdivision was recently announced to be locating on Hillbrook Lane in the city. The city also expects work to begin on a 44-unit apartment complex in the West End area in the next few weeks.

Ward Braswell, city director of building and zoning, said that in the last two years, the city has gained 24 new single family dwellings and three multi-family dwellings in the form of apartments and town houses.

City Manager Eric Budds dubbed these first few developments “demonstration projects” for commuters.

“We feel like if given a local product, some of those individuals who are commuting will reconsider that decision,” Budds said.

He said that while the preference is for mid-range single family dwellings, most importantly, the city's goal is to provide “decent, safe and affordable housing for all income ranges.”

“The market is going to dictate how many (houses) we can handle, but if we can get 50 to 60 underway, I think that would be a first step to addressing the need,” Budds said, adding the city is currently working with three individuals who have expressed interest in developing residential property.

Budds said Louis Rich has been open with the city and county regarding hiring schedules and salary ranges so that proper accommodations can be made.