From WATTAgNet:
The Leavenworth (Kansas) County Commission voted to rescind a resolution of intent to provide financial incentives for Tyson Foods for a proposed poultry complex in the community of Tonganoxie.
During the September 18 meeting, the commission voted 2-1 to rescind the measure, which stated the county would issue as much as $500 million in industrial revenue bonds to support the project.
The move came just days after three state legislators hosted a public forum in Tonganoxie, seeking residents’ input about the proposed Tyson Foods complex. The forum revealed that the majority of the county’s citizens do not want the complex, which would include a processing plant, hatchery and feed mill near Tonganoxie in Leavenworth County. The complex is expected to employ 1,600 people and process about 1.25 million chickens per week.
“We did not hear one single person get up here on this stage tonight and tell us why this Tyson plant needs to come to this community,” Sen. Tom Holland said at the forum.
While the project does not appear to have the support of Leavenworth County residents, it was highly touted by Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback, a Republican serving in his second term.
“The far-reaching impact of this development will be felt by farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses and communities throughout eastern Kansas. This is a step in the right direction to further diversify and grow our state’s economy,” Brownback said at the time Tyson announced its plans.
Leavenworth County rescinds bond support for Tyson complex
The three-member Leavenworth County Commission voted Monday to rescind a resolution of intent to issue as much as $500 million in industrial revenue bonds to help Tyson Foods Inc. finance a controversial poultry complex just south of Tonganoxie.
Read More at Kansas City Business Journal
Tonganoxie Tyson plant may be in trouble following county commission vote
A move by Tyson Foods to build a $320 million meatpacking plant near Tonganoxie may be in trouble after Leavenworth County commissioners backed off supporting the controversial facility.
