Hillsboro businesses receive state awards
Two Hillsboro businesses were recognized by Kansas Department of Commerce after being nominated by Hillsboro Development Corporation.
A luncheon was held Friday at Hutchinson where the businesses were recognized by the commerce department.
"We are thrilled to recognize the south central Kansas businesses that make this state strong," Kansas Secretary of Commerce David Kerr said.
June is recognized by the state as Business Appreciation Month and the state and other communities in the state recognize businesses for their endeavors.
Clint Seibel, executive director of Hillsboro Development Corporation/Hillsboro Ventures, Inc., said Circle D is one of Hillsboro's strongest and most stable companies.
"Their reputation for product quality and durability has brought positive recognition to the company and to our community," he said. "Their low employee turnover rate speaks volumes as to the loyalty they develop within the work force."
Circle D Corporation began the manufacturing of livestock and flatbed trailers in 1987. The products are marketed through distributors that are located primarily in the western states. Approximately 90 percent of their sales are outside of the state, bringing needed dollars to the Kansas economy, Seibel said.
"Since its inception, Circle D has been very supportive and involved in the community," Seibel said, with members of the management team being actively involved on the Hillsboro City Council, Hillsboro Community Medical Center board of directors, and with other local organizations.
Elcon Services, Inc. is the largest electrical contractor in Hillsboro and Marion County. The majority of their work is commercial, industrial, and oilfield-related.
Beginning in 1963 as a general partnership, Elcon Services was incorporated in 1971.
"They have continued their successful operation for more than 35 years, growing to more than 12 employees," Seibel said.
"Elcon's expertise in the electrical services industry with the quality of service offered, has resulted in significant growth of their business during the past five years," Seibel said. So much so a new 7,500-square-foot warehouse and office complex is being constructed at Hillsboro Heights Development.
Also active and supportive of the Hillsboro community, the company is active with the Marion County Fair Board and Main Street Ministries as board members.
"We congratulate Circle D Corporation for earning a merit award in the manufacturing category and Elcon Services, Inc., for earning a merit award in the service category," Seibel said.
Other businesses in Marion County who received merit awards were Sticks & Twigs of Burns and Western Associates of Marion.
Department of commerce recognized 33 businesses in south central Kansas for their contributions to their communities and the Kansas economy.
Companies were nominated and then chosen by the department of commerce. The department recognized the chosen businesses in three categories: manufacturing /distribution, service, and retail. One company from each category was awarded a Business Excellence Award with others receiving a business achievement award or merit award.
Kansas Cavalry will award the Governor's Award of Excellence to the top business in the state this week.
