Ford official: St. Paul plant will still close in 2011
Gov. Pawlenty announced today that he wants the Legislture to create a "CARZ" zone to encourage Ford officials to keep St. Paul's Ford plant running. Pawlenty said the tax breaks would help
"We should also use a tool like this as part of an effort, along with local partners, to keep making cars and trucks in St. Paul. 750 hardworking people at the Ford plant want to keep their jobs and we should do all we can to help them.
I am asking the Legislature to pass my plan to create a "CARZ" zone at the Ford Plant that will offer tax incentives similar to the JOBZ program."
DFL lawmakers and St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman say they're encouraged that Pawlenty is putting the proposal forward. But Marcie Evans with Ford Motor Company said the company's decision on the plant hasn't changed:
"We aren't familiar with the details of the proposal but in general we support any effort by states that creates a business climate that creates jobs. Ford has always appreciated the governor's support and his willingness to work with us over the years but our decision to close the Twin Cities Assembly plant has not changed."
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