By KEVIN COLLISON
The Kansas City Star
Medtronic Inc. on Monday picked San Antonio over Johnson County for a 1,400-employee diabetes support facility, lured by a $14 million public incentive package that included $6 million in cash.
The Minnesota-based firm had reviewed sites in Overland Park and Lenexa, including the former Applebee’s headquarters on Renner Boulevard. But Texas state and local officials came though with an offer it couldn’t refuse, officials said in a statement.
“By expanding their diabetes division in San Antonio, I believe that Medtronic is sending a clear message that the core strength of Texas’ economy, built on our low taxes, fair legal system and predictable regulatory climate,” makes the state attractive to companies and their employees, Gov. Rick Perry said.
“These factors, combined with our quality work force and a $6 million investment from the Texas Enterprise Fund, make it possible for us to make (the) announcement about more jobs for Texans.”
Officials at the Kansas City Area Development Council and Kansas Department of Commerce, which had lobbied the medical firm to locate its operations here, could not be reached for comment.
The Medtronic Diabetes Therapy Management and Education Center is expected to employ a mostly college-educated work force, and its functions will include customer service and sales support.
The economic benefit to the San Antonio area was estimated at $750 million by San Antonio Economic Development Foundation.
“This is one of the largest economic development projects in the United States this year, with nearly 1,400 jobs anticipated,” said Randy Cain, chairman of the foundation.
The $6 million state grant was described by the foundation as being an “important factor” in Medtronic’s decision.
© 2009 Kansas City Star and wire service sources. All Rights Reserved. http://www.kansascity.com
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