Daily Dose for July 17, 2008

VW Incentive Package Likely Over $400M

VW Incentive Package Likely Over $400M -- While the exact total for the incentive package offered to Volkswagen to locate their North American auto assembly plant in Chattanooga has not been determined, the package is likely in excess of $400M. That's the amount that Alabama offered and was rejected. What we do know is part of the deal is the land, which was donated by Chattanooga at a cost of $81M. A state incentive package approved as a last minute addition to this year's budget, gives $5,000 per job over 20 years at a value of $200M for 2,000 employees.

Ford in Jury's Hands -- The trial of former State Sen. John Ford has wrapped up and jury deliberations begin today in the federal case. Ford is accused of taking money as consulting fees and then using his office to push for deals with a TennCare contractor that paid him. The trial ended with Doral Dental execs pleading the fifth amendment and refusing to testify before the jury. More here and here.

Hamilton Co. Mayor Ramsey Wants Incumbent to Lose -- Hamilton Co. Mayor Claude Ramsey had strong words when commenting on the race of incumbent State Rep. Jim Cobb. Ramsey criticized Cobb for his vote on the BEP formula changes sought by the metro mayors and said, "I hope he gets beat." Cobb is running against former State Rep. Jim Vincent.

Local Elections Early Voting -- Don't forget that many counties have August elections for county races. Early voting for those elections starts Friday and goes through August 2.

Posted by Adam Groves | Email This |