The parent of Progress Rail Services is eyeing a move of the Electro Motive Diesel business to a new facility on the East Coast, and out of its historic plant in LaGrange, Ill., involving as many as 600 jobs. http://m.railwayage.com/index.php/m...il-parent-may-move-locomotive-production.html
Not surprised I worked there in the 70's and 80's before I got laid off and ended up with Illinois Bell. In 79 there was 12000 employees throughout the plant and in 87 they where down to 1000. I was called back a few years later but didn't trust it with little kids, but I kept in touch with people that where still there till Catipillar basically bought out their GM contracts. Neadless to say jobs went from well paid and great benefits to less then average.
That article reads a little odd. Interesting that Progress Rail would shut down the 600 or so manufacturing jobs there and move the work elsewhere but then maintain the about 600 administrative and engineering jobs at the site. Maybe the problem is too many chiefs and not enough Indians?
Moving it must provide some benefit in costs. Whether reduced payroll expenses (wage level), tax breaks, a combination...?
Perhaps Progress Rail is seeking tax relief and is giving the municipality and state the opportunity to work a deal. The State of Illinois is neck deep in debt and it's become a difficult place to do business.
If seeking tax relief, and/or a better wage climate, I would wonder about the financial condition of their company. Is this simply seeking greater profits? Or are they in trouble?