BERNE — Two of the community’s largest employers — FCC Adams and EP Graphics — detailed shifting economic conditions, new investments and signs of recovery during Monday night’s Berne City Council meeting, offering a snapshot of how national trends are playing out locally.
FCC Announces $1.7 Million Investment, New Product Line
FCC Controller Matt Lingo told council members the company is moving forward with a $1.7 million equipment investment, prompting a request for a new personal property tax abatement. The project includes equipment for a cooling‑water jacket product line used in electronics cooling, along with a 1650‑ton die‑cast machine that will allow FCC to pursue larger casting contracts.
The investment comes as FCC transitions away from older Ford transmission programs that are winding down. Lingo said the company is seeing increased activity in its 10‑speed transmission work, and the new equipment is intended to position the Berne plant for future contracts.
FCC currently employs 470 workers, making it one of Adams County’s largest employers. The council unanimously approved Declaratory Resolution 2026‑4‑1, beginning the formal abatement process.
EP Graphics Reports Tariff Impacts, USPS Delays — and Signs of Rebound
EP Graphics executives Jim Simmons and David (last name not provided) reported that the past year brought challenges tied to national economic pressures. Simmons said tariff unpredictability caused many catalog clients to reduce or cancel print runs, noting, “They cut back on the number of catalogues they printed.”
USPS operational changes also slowed delivery nationwide after the postal service eliminated several major distribution centers. The delays disrupted catalog mailing schedules, further reducing print volume. “Delivery was slow… most of last year,” Simmons said.
Despite the slowdown, EP Graphics still mailed an estimated 125 million pieces in 2025, making Berne’s post office the second‑busiest in Indiana, behind Indianapolis.
Simmons said customer optimism has improved in recent weeks, and the company expects a stronger second half of the year. EP Graphics also continues to hire through the Crossroads community program, with several long‑term placements.
The council voted to find the company in substantial compliance and renewed its CF‑1 tax abatement.