SIMI VALLEY : Firm’s President Favors Relocation

The president of a San Fernando Valley medical supply manufacturer said Wednesday he will urge his board of directors to move the plant, corporate offices and 470 jobs to Simi Valley.

Guardian Products Inc. president Robert B. Senn, who has been reviewing offers to relocate to Simi Valley or several out-of-state locations, said he will recommend a move to the Peppertree South Business Park on the east side of Tapo Canyon Road south of the Arroyo Simi.

Guardian Products is now based in Arleta and North Hollywood. The company is a leading maker of products for the disabled and elderly, including crutches, walking aids and wheelchairs.

Senn declined to comment on how soon the proposal will be considered by the board of Guardian Products’ parent company, Torrance-based Sunrise Medical Inc. Sunrise spokeswoman Lisa Riordan said the board’s next regular meeting is Aug. 25, but she said the relocation issue could be decided earlier.

Eager to bring new jobs to the city, Simi Valley City Council members have offered $175,000 in redevelopment funds to offset Guardian Products’ relocation expenses. City officials have also taken a step toward sponsoring the sale of industrial revenue bonds that could help finance construction of Guardian’s new facilities.

Although the company is awaiting final approval from its corporate board, Guardian Products already has applied to the city for a building permit, Simi Valley officials said. “All indications so far are that they’re a ‘go,’ ” said Jim Hansen, deputy city manager.