Manufacturer Leaves Washington After Nearly 50 Years

A manufacturer in Washington is relocating for the first time in almost 50 years. The owner has cited a rising crime rate, high taxes, and a challenging political climate as key factors in the decision.

John Bordwell, who took over the family-owned Delta Camshaft, established in 1977, shared that he feels compelled to stay on-site due to escalating business costs in Washington. “It’s a constant struggle with the city over graffiti and crime, and taxes keep climbing,” Bordwell remarked in a recent interview.

He further noted, “Power prices, insurance, everything has gone up significantly. It’s not just a minor increase; my insurance premiums skyrocketed by 20% this year alone. My electricity bill nearly doubled just last month.”

Delta Camshaft specializes in manufacturing and repairing camshafts, which play a crucial role in engine performance.

On their website, the company reassured customers that they are not shutting down but will, instead, be relocating to better serve them in the future.

“The crime situation has made my insurance policy explode,” Bordwell stated. He expressed frustration over police response times, stating, “It seems officers take longer to write reports than to make arrests. Criminals seem to receive more protection than I do as a property owner.”

Recent FBI crime reports show Seattle ranking among the top cities for total crime. Bordwell anticipates that moving his business could incur over $100,000 in costs, yet he believes he can recoup those expenses once relocated.

Reflecting on past opportunities, he mentioned, “I should have sold the business a few years back when real estate prices in Tacoma were rising. Now, with so many moving away, there are numerous buildings available for sale.”

Delta Camshaft isn’t alone in its decision to leave. A recent survey revealed that 44% of business leaders in Washington are considering relocating their businesses, and there is a notable trend of companies choosing to expand outside the state rather than within it.

This migration is partly fueled by the new “Millionaire Tax,” passed by Washington’s state Democrats. This tax is the state’s first income tax, supported by progressive policymakers and met with opposition from conservatives.

Bordwell expressed a desire to influence changes himself, saying, “If I were younger, maybe in my 20s or 30s, I would have considered running for office to try to change things. But at 56, with ongoing health issues, I doubt I have that much time left.”