Valparaiso council delays vote on Pratt Industries plant expansion

Valparaiso, Indiana's city council tabled first readings of annexation and rezoning ordinances on 15 September 2026 needed for Pratt Industries to build a new corrugated converting plant, after residents raised concerns over noise, smells and traffic. A decision is now due on 28 September 2026. Pratt cites an investment of USD 100m creating about 50 jobs, while city documents put capital spending at USD 70m for a 300,000 to 400,000 square foot facility.

Why this mattersThe delay shows local zoning and community opposition can slow converter capacity additions even for an established, large local employer.

• Council tabled first readings on annexation and rezoning ordinances until 28 September 2026
• Proposal covers 92 acres, rezoned from light to heavy industrial
• Jeff Beaver of Pratt Industries cited a USD 100m investment for the converting plant
• City materials cited a USD 70m capital investment for a 300,000 to 400,000 square foot plant
• Plant expected to create about 50 jobs in year one, paying USD 28.59 per hour
• Pratt Industries has operated in Valparaiso for 23 years and is the city's largest private employer and taxpayer

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