Wichita, Kan.-based Spirit AeroSystems is poised to invest $600 million in the Global TransPark in Kinston. Golden LEAF, a nonprofit that distributes proceeds from the state’s tobacco-settlement money, and state officials are discussing incentives for the company, which makes fuselages and other components for aerospace manufacturers such as Boeing.
The prospect of a major employer coming to the Global TransPark in Kinston has excited businessmen and residents in neighboring Craven County. Many feel that Spirit AeroSystems would attract other companies to the region.
Ken Thompson, CEO of Charlotte-based Wachovia, plans to hire outside analysts to assess the bank’s internal controls and risk-management policies. Thompson also says the bank is not in crisis despite a string of news reports detailing its missteps.
Haywood Regional Medical Center in Clyde plans to cut employee hours by 30% starting this week. The hospital will use voluntary time off and temporary two-week layoffs to achieve the cuts. Earlier this year, the hospital lost Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements.
Pittsburg, Texas-based Pilgrim’s Pride says it has been contacted by several companies interested in buying the chicken-processing plant it intends to close in Siler City by the end of the month. However, the company says, it has no formal offers from any of them. The plant employs 830.
Gov. Mike Easley’s plan to pay for teachers’ raises and mental-health reform by raising the state’s taxes on cigarettes and alcohol isn’t likely to pass the General Assembly, legislative leaders say. None wanted to raise taxes during tough economic times.
