Maxwell said in a press release that the project was an opportunity for the community to provide living-wage jobs, advanced technology and a continued commitment to environmental sensibility.
“While Tethys has decided to cease its efforts to locate a food-grade beverage manufacturing facility in the city, the city will continue to look for other development and job-creating opportunities. That being said the safeguards that we included in the water agreement worked as they were intended,” Maxwell said.
In his letter to the Mayor, Winter said the project is still viable, in fact, he said the project has gained viability as forecasts and predictions about the future of wage, jobs and environmental issued have proven accurate.
"Now more than ever there is a need for the sweeping environmental improvements and economic and social benefits our project offers to the beverage industry and our region," Winter said.
Winter said he and his wife will be relocating to Ireland for the start up of what he called an exciting new international investment company.
"The City will continue to look for opportunities for business development," said Ryan Larsen, the City's Director of Planning, Community, and Economic Development. He added, "Water is an important resource that, together with other advantages offered by the City of Anacortes, should provide opportunities for further economic development within the City. "