September 22, 2005

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today signed legislation that will bring an estimated 750 new jobs to Delta Township in Eaton County.  Public Act 118, which broadens the definition of companies eligible to receive tax abatements, will immediately aid Ryder Supply Chain Solutions which has committed to locate in the township.

 “Creating good paying jobs in our communities is this administration’s top priority,” Granholm said. “I’m pleased to be able to sign a small change in the law that will make a huge difference for our local communities.”

Ryder Supply Chain Solutions, best known for renting moving trucks, announced plans to locate in the vacant General Motors engine plant in Delta Township earlier this year, but plans were put on hold when the company learned it didn’t qualify for $290,000 in property tax abatements.  The company plans to use the new facility to do sorting and parts distribution for local auto plants, but under existing, they did not meet the definition of a manufacturing facility and therefore did not qualify.

“Effective government is never an impediment to investment and growth,” Granholm said.  “This law will help ensure that we are doing everything we can to help create jobs.”

House Bill 4915 was sponsored by Representative Rick Jones (R-Grand Ledge) and co-sponsored by a bi-partisan group of 17 Representatives.