GM eyes Shreveport plant for new truck product

[f5fstop]

I wonder what truck they would want to build??????

SHREVEPORT TIMES
By Melody Brumble
December 5, 2006

General Motors is considering investing $70 million in its Shreveport plant to produce a new vehicle. The auto manufacturer is asking local authorities to eliminate sales and use taxes on purchases of manufacturing equipment effective Jan. 1.

Caddo commissioners approved the tax forgiveness in November. Parish School Board members will hear a presentation about the request today.


Pam Reese, a GM corporate spokeswoman, said the company is weighing whether to build "a new truck product" in Shreveport but declined to provide details.

A decision will be made "in the near future," Reese said.

In late 2005, the company announced it would invest $20 million to increase the number of Hummer H3 sport utility vehicles, Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon trucks produced here.

Production of a new truck could save up to 300 jobs. The Shreveport plant's work force will decline by up to 900 jobs as General Motors downsizes operations throughout the country, a move announced in 2005.

Caddo Commissioner Woodrow Wilson said the request to eliminate sales and use taxes on new manufacturing equipment is part of a statewide initiative.

"They have the same proposal before the Legislature in the special session," Wilson said. "Other states have done it. We're just kind of getting in line with what other states are doing.

"The parish looks at trying to foster economic development. But we're aware that economic sustainability for existing businesses is also important."