Sunday, June 12, 2005

Hmm, let's see... which one do we pick...?

California Company Gets State Grant To Move To Iowa

That headline makes you automatically think it's a done deal, right? Read on, my friend:
A California company that provides video surveillance and security systems for businesses has received the promise of a $500,000 state grant if it moves its headquarters to Iowa.

Westec InterActive, based in Irvine, Calif., is considering a nearly $6 million project to relocate its headquarters and command center to Des Moines or Dallas, according to Iowa Department of Economic Development officials.

The project would relocate 83 jobs at an average wage of $25 per hour and create an additional 17 new jobs.

Westec has about 1,500 customers in the U.S. including jewelry stores, convenience stores, restaurants, hotels and other businesses.

Iowa's economic development board approved the money Friday.

A Westec spokeswoman said decisions about a relocation have not been made.

Oh, man, let's think about this. We could move to Dallas, or we could move to Des Moines. Dallas or Des Moines? Dallas or Des Moines?

Good move on the part of the Economic Development Board... no way we beat out Dallas unless we weight the decision in our favor with $$$$$.

That being said, whose $$$$$ would those be? Taxpayers'? It would certainly be in line with past state behavior towards companies considering relocating here. I'm kind-of tired of handing out freebies; how's about we actually lower all our taxes so companies will just come here of their own accord? Nah, that would make too much sense.

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