JAY, VT - Window manufacturer Menck's plans to open a $20 million window plant in Vermont were cancelled and redirected to Chicopee, MA after a conflict arose over intended use of imported European wood window frame machinery.

German-based Menck, which builds extra thick style thermal pane windows used throughout Europe, originally wanted to build a 75-employee window factory in Vermont, taking advantage of an EB-5 Immigrant Investor program that rewards foreign investors for generating jobs by investing in U.S. manufacturing facilities.

But a conflict arose over the somewhat complex job creation formula. Use of imported woodworking equipment meant insufficient U.S. jobs were created in the establishment of the window factory to qualify under the EB-5 program.

At least 10 American jobs must be created for each $500,000 invested in order to qualify for the program - either direct or indirect.

Unable to source its machinery in the U.S., Menck  - opted to relocate the plant to Massachusetts.  The Chicopee, MA city council will vote on tax breaks for Menck this week. European style windows employ specialized hardware and thick seals, open easily in multiple directions, and locking tightly for sealing out weather.