From Detroit Free Press
PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP, MI — Plymouth Township, Mich., will retain its largest taxpayer for the time being.
Johnson Controls officials recently announced they will not to move to Salem Township this year, but still expect to relocate their headquarters and technology facilities from Plymouth Township to a larger site when a suitable location is found.
Johnson Controls officials notified Plymouth Township and state officials of the change last week.
William Dawson, vice president of communications for Johnson Controls automotive group, said the company is exploring alternative sites in several locations near its existing facilities to build additional office, research and engineering space.
The company has estimated the value of the new headquarters project at $160 million. Township Supervisor Steve Mann said the township is committed to assisting Johnson Controls as it considers potential sites.
In 2001, Johnson Controls acquired 360 acres of land in Salem Township for a new headquarters. Company officials said cost and time constraints caused the deal to fall through.
Dawson said the company will sell the property in Salem Township.
Johnson Controls employs between 1,500 and 2,000 employees at the Plymouth automotive group headquarters.
Founded in 1885 in Milwaukee, Johnson Controls is a global market leader in automotive systems and a major supplier of integrated seating and interior systems, and batteries.
Copyright 2004 Detroit Free Press. All Rights Reserved.
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