NORWICH – The U.S.’s economic outlook is far from rosy as 2008 winds to a close. With more large scale layoffs, manufacturing slow-downs and bankruptcies being announced daily, it is easy to be discouraged. There are, however, some positive points on the horizon in our corner of the world.

In a meeting of the Chenango County Industrial Development Agency earlier this week, Executive Director Maureen Carpenter updated the board on the progress of several potential economic development projects in the works.

“There’s a lot going on,” said Carpenter, as she discussed potential projects in Norwich, Sherburne and elsewhere in Chenango County. As none of the deals have been finalized, the executive director said she could not discuss the names of specific companies involved.

The fate of the P&G facility at Woods Corners has been of concern for the community.

“We have several interested parties,” said Carpenter. One of which, she said, has already made an offer which they are looking to revise.

Another group, this one from Canada, sent representatives down last week to look at the facility. The company is currently housed in a business incubator in the Toronto area and is looking to relocate.

“It’s very tight competition with Toronto,” Carpenter said. Not only would the proximity make for an easier move for the company, but the city also provides “very good incentives” for businesses.

Carpenter also mentioned a third group who has made inquiries through the New Jersey-based brokerage firm handling the property.