First week of session interesting
The Senate passed House Bill 403, helping to attract California-based Stion Company to Hattiesburg, where it anticipates hiring up to 1,000 workers within the next six years. Stion’s primary function will be to manufacture high efficiency thin film solar panels, and it will be located the building that once housed the old Sunbeam plant.
The manufacturer’s average employee salary will be $43,000, according to corporate officials, and more than 200 jobs will be created within the year. It will invest more than $500 million in the state.
Recognizing the importance of economic development, the Senate approved a $75 million loan to the company within hours of beginning the 2011 session on Tuesday. Importantly, it must be repaid with interest within 10 years. Smaller incentives were also provided in the package.
Chris McDaniel
Leader Call
1/9/11
