Former senator: County should offer deal for Philip Morris land
Friday, June 29th, 2007
By Chris Fitzsimon
Hayes says it’s not too late to make bid to keep company in Cabarrus
By Holly Fesperman Lee
Salisbury Post
CONCORD — A former state legislator who was instrumental in bringing Philip Morris USA to Cabarrus County says it will take creative thinking to handle the cigarette maker’s closing.
Former N.C. Sen. Jim Johnson proposes forgiving some property taxes Philip Morris will owe the city and county over the next couple of years in exchange for some of the 2,100 acres the company owns here. The county and city could then use that land, along U.S. 29 in Concord and near Interstate 85, to lure more industry, he said.
Meanwhile, a Congressman from Concord says it’s not too late to fight for the company. U.S. Rep. Robin Hayes said in a letter to state and local officials this week that all levels of government should cooperate on incentives to convince Philip Morris to stay.
"I was sorry that North Carolina did not get an opportunity to present itself as the U.S. home for Philip Morris operations prior to the announcement," Hayes wrote. " While I am fully aware that Philip Morris has announced their planned moves over the next few years, I believe that corporate decisions are potentially subject to change if new considerations arise. (more…)
Last 5 posts in Daily News
- N.C. lawmakers to create offshore drilling panel - November 21st, 2008
- Basnight suggests a favorite to lead DOT - November 21st, 2008
- Steps N.C. should take to lead on health care - November 21st, 2008
- Democratic party head in N.C. will step down - November 21st, 2008
- Washington wows Hagan - November 21st, 2008
Email This Post
Print This Post
