A family-run auto parts manufacturer is leaving Washington state after nearly half a century, with its owner blaming crime, graffiti, taxes, and fees for driving the business out.
Delta Camshaft Moving to Arizona
Delta Camshaft, a Tacoma business that has been grinding and repairing camshafts since 1977, is preparing to relocate to Mesa, Arizona. Owner Jon Bodwell said the decision involves packing up more than one million camshafts and moving heavy machinery weighing several tons.
Bodwell stated that the six-figure cost of leaving the state is 'sadly worth every penny' after years of rising costs and worsening conditions for small businesses in the city.
'I've decided I can no longer compete with the political doom that's come through town,' Bodwell said. 'Crime, graffiti, taxes and fees got me on the run.'
Logistical Challenges of the Move
The company faces a huge logistical challenge before officially leaving Washington. More than one million camshafts must be individually packed and moved, along with four industrial machines weighing roughly seven tons each.
'The move alone will cost well over $100,000,' Bodwell revealed.
According to the firm's website, the business began as Delta Engineering in 1977 when Bodwell's father borrowed money from his grandfather to buy used equipment and manufacture engine parts. Bodwell purchased the company alongside family members in 2006 and became sole owner in 2021.
Personal and Business Toll
Bodwell described the company as a second-generation, veteran-owned operation deeply tied to Tacoma. 'Tacoma was my city, and Washington was my home. Now I will hang my hat somewhere else,' he said.
He revealed that after suffering serious health problems and a 'brush with death,' he temporarily signed the company over to his 24-year-old son, who serves in the US Air Force, before regaining control this year.
Reasons for Leaving
Bodwell argued that Washington's business climate had become increasingly hostile to small manufacturers. Inventory costs in the automotive industry surged dramatically, from $5,000 to $35,000-$40,000. Businesses are taxed on inventory sitting on shelves and then taxed again when products are sold.
He also criticized local crime and weak enforcement policies, claiming criminals committing graffiti, theft, and vandalism were routinely 'booked and released before the arresting officers even finish writing the reports.'
Mounting regulations and permit costs further contributed to the decision. Fees include a yearly 'No Discharge Permit' costing $480, fire inspection fees, mandatory alarm testing costs, and rising insurance premiums.
'I believe the term is nickel and dimed to death,' Bodwell said.
Soaring utility costs were also cited, with Bodwell warning about projected future energy price increases.
Staffing Challenges
The relocation is expected to create major staffing challenges, as most workers are unlikely to leave Washington for Arizona. Only one employee, facility manager Ken Quale, is guaranteed to remain with the company in a remote support role.
Broader Trend
Delta Camshaft is not alone in leaving high-cost West Coast states. A growing number of businesses have relocated from Washington, California, and Oregon to states like Texas, Arizona, Tennessee, and Florida, citing lower taxes, cheaper energy, reduced regulation, and concerns about crime.
Major companies including Chevron, Tesla, and Oracle have announced significant relocations in recent years.
Bodwell believes more businesses could follow. 'A study was just done and 24 percent say they plan on moving their companies out of state. I personally believe the state has passed the point of no return. Like me, many will have to go hang their hats somewhere else.'
