Good news for Benton Harbor.
Whirlpool Corp.'s purchase of Maytag Corp. has led to a $5-million investment and the creation of 400 jobs at the company's headquarters in Benton Harbor.
The infusion of new jobs, facilitated in part by the Michigan Economic Development Corp., is a boon for the Benton Harbor-St. Joseph area. The MEDC approved a $10.4-million tax credit over 13 years, which is expected to create an economic ripple throughout western Michigan.
An economic analysis conducted by the University of Michigan estimates that Whirlpool's purchase could generate 433 "indirect Michigan jobs" and more than $600 million in personal income for workers over the life of the tax credit.
Gov. Jennifer Granholm is scheduled to hold a telephone news conference from Japan today to make the announcement.
"Whirlpool's decision to invest and bring jobs to Michigan is a testament to our aggressive strategy to attract new business investment, grow new jobs and build strong communities," Granholm said in a statement.
And, on another topic- Governor, you call it the "northern border", I call it the "escape route". Don't give the Canadians any ideas. Thanks.