July 12, 2012 - City manager approves business incentive for American Rec

Media Contacts:
Scott Kaier, American Rec, 303-262-3048
Sarah Huntley, Media Relations, 303-441-3155
Liz Hanson, Economic Vitality Coordinator, 303-441-3287
www.bouldercolorado.gov

City manager approves business incentive for American Rec

City Manager Jane S. Brautigam has approved a flexible rebate application for Boulder-based American Rec for up to $25,000 in rebates.  The rebates were authorized for sales and use taxes, and permit-related fees.

“American Rec’s decision to expand its operations in Boulder allows the city to be home to the company’s ten major outdoor industry brands, strengthening Boulder’s outdoor industry sector,” Brautigam said. “We are pleased that the flexible rebate program helped American Rec with its investment at its Gunbarrel location.”

The flexible rebate program is one of the city’s business incentives, covering a wide range of fees, equipment and construction use taxes.  Under this program, the city manager may consider a specific incentive package for tax and fee rebates to meet a company’s specific needs.  The company is then eligible for the rebate after it has made its investment and paid the taxes or fees to the city.

American Rec is a collection of ten prominent outdoor industry brands, including Kelty, Royal Robins, Sierra Designs, Wenzel, Slumberjack, Rokk, Insta-Bed, Mountain Trails, Ultimate Direction and ISIS. The company was founded in St. Louis, MO, and in 2010, moved its headquarters to Boulder where several of its brands were already based, and because of the strong outdoor industry and lifestyle. With the move, American Rec grew to 60 employees. After purchasing ISIS for Women and moving it to Boulder, American Rec now has almost 100 employees.  The company recently remodeled its space at 6235 Lookout Road to better accommodate its growth.

“The Boulder location and exposure from the Diagonal Highway is an integral part of our corporate identity,” said Brett Jordan, chief executive officer of American Rec’s Equipment Group. “The new building remodel will meet the new demands of the consolidated divisions along with anticipated growth over the next several years.”

The flexible rebate program uses social, community, and environmental sustainability guidelines. Companies choose the guidelines that best fit their circumstances, but must meet minimum requirements in order to receive the rebate.  American Rec has met the requirements and, of note, has a commute trip reduction program that includes alternative work schedules, showers, secure bike parking, and designated carpool parking. In addition, the company participates in volunteer industry initiatives, runs a recycling program, and will participate in the city’s energy assessment and EnergySmart programs.

American Rec’s application is the first 2012 flexible rebate application. The city’s approved 2012 budget includes $350,000 in funding for 2012 flexible tax and fee rebates for primary employers. 

For more information about the city’s economic vitality program, go to www.bouldercolorado.gov, click on "Business," or call Liz Hanson at 303-441-3287.

Last Updated on Tuesday, 09 October 2012 10:14