Corporate Welfare: Good Business?

The Acme Widget Co. has decided to build a plant. They will initially employ five hundred people and will top out over one thousand people in three years.  While they are not **union** jobs, they will pay very competitive wages.

Acme is looking for a place to build and some things have to be taken into consideration.  An available workforce.  The ability to move goods (rail, highways and air).  Incentives to help them build at a cost they feel is worthwhile and will allow them to achieve profitability as quickly as possible.  This third consideration is where the term "corporate welfare" gets used.

If I am the leader of my City or County, I want the widget company to build and put my people to work. There is very little that I won't consider or do to make that happen. If I have to wine and dine the decision makers, so be it.  If I have to figure out a way to give them some tax breaks, bet that I will do it.  Whatever it takes, because if I don't do it, the leader(s) in the next City or County will do it and reap the benefit.

Probably not right in a perfect world, but absolutely necessary in today's economy.  As you consider who you will vote for in the upcoming elections, you would be best to consider the **warrior** mentality of the leader.  Will they do what it takes to put Bartow County citizens to work while maintaining integrity and character.  As always, your comments are welcome.