MILLS COUNTY, Iowa (KETV) — It’s been almost a year since Cattlemen’s Heritage Beef Company announced its plan to build a new beef processing plant in Mills County. The site near Interstate 29 and Bunge Avenue has seen little movement since the company worked to meet federal and environmental regulations.

In June, Cattlemen’s Heritage received a $25 million grant from the United States Department of Agriculture for the project. This meant the ground needed to undergo a rigorous assessment to make sure there wouldn’t be any significant environmental damage. Other regulations also require the company to build a water treatment plant on site.

CEO Chad Tentinger tells KETV in Omaha, that it took longer than expected, and he underestimated the project’s timeline. He said they’re preparing to break ground later this year. It’s likely to happen near Spring, but hopes to announce a new date within a month. Legacy Beef Co-op will be the official supplier for the plant.