Smith County to Get Grant for Sanderson Farms Water Infrastructure Improvements

TYLER — Smith County has been notified by Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller that it’s received an $850,000 grant to fund water system improvements needed for Sanderson Farms’ poultry processing plant. County Judge Nathaniel Moran says the move is “an affirmation” of the new plant’s “widespread positive economic impact.” Officials say the northern Smith County facility will employ up to 1,490 workers. The Tyler Economic Development Council’s Tom Mullins and County Commissioner Terry Phillips are also upbeat about the latest news — and the long-term impact of the plant.