(Greenville, December 24, 2003, 7:16 a.m.) Its coming down to the wire to save Greenville’s Electrolux refrigerator plant and 2,700 jobs from moving to Mexico. In October, company officials told employees they may move production out of the country beginning in 2005. City officials responded by creating a task force of business, government and civic leaders, as well as union members and employees to come up with an incentive package to keep Electrolux from leaving and devastating the local economy.
The deadline for that plan is January 9, and Tuesday night marked the task force’s final meeting. Governor Jennifer Granholm attended the work session, primarily for a progress report and to see what she could do to help in the process. Members of the Michigan Economic Development Team were also involved.
“It’s us as a community putting our foot down and saying we won’t lose any more manufacturing jobs to Mexico or China,” said Granholm, stressing the importance of the Greenville plant to the rest of the state economy.
Its tough talk, but it will be a tough task. Tuesday, the governor signed the re-authorization of the Michigan Economic Growth Authority which includes a specific provision for Electrolux – tax breaks that add up to $80 million over 20 years. Its a significant tax incentive, but the company has said they’ll save $81 million each year by moving to Mexico. However, tax breaks are just part of the incentives package, which will likely also include money for job training, concessions from workers and perhaps a new or updated plant.
Details were worked out Tuesday night in a closed door meeting. Afterward, City Manager George Bosanic said they put together a good plan in just two month’s time, and will present it to Electrolux the first week of January.
“We’ve done a lot,” said Bosanic. “The question is: is it enough? We’re about to find out.”
Greenville Mayor Lloyd Walker is keeping a positive attitude as well.
“We are filled with hope in this very hopeful season,” he commented before the meeting.
The governor says its a competitive package, and with a dedicated workforce and determined community, she believes Electrolux can be convinced to stay.
“We want them to remain productive, to remain here. We can compete, and win, and we will not accept no for an answer.”
From Wood TV