Chrysler announces expansion plans in Kokomo

KOKOMO, Ind. (WISH) - More than 1,000 new jobs may be coming to Central Indiana in the next few years.

Monday morning, Chrysler officials met with leaders in Tipton County, where they discussed a 10 year tax abatement to invest $162 million in a new plant there that could bring up to 850 new jobs.

The plan would bring back to life the existing transmission plant there.

Monday night, leaders in Kokomo also approved a deal with Chrysler officials.

Members of the common council passed two resolutions that allow a 10 year tax abatement for Chrysler so the company can expand its operations in existing Kokomo plants.

“This is great news for our city, and I think it’s great news for the entire state,” said Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight.

Chrysler plans to invest upwards of $200 million in new equipment in Kokomo, and the company hopes to add 411 new jobs in the process.

“Kokomo's been (a) long-standing partner with Chrysler. We've been here for decades. They, I think most importantly, were here during our most difficult days, which was during our bankruptcy. They stood behind us, and Mayor Greg Goodnight was a very vocal supporter for us, as well as the council here," said Brian Harlow of Chrysler. “We have a great workforce here; a lot of experience. For us, it’s the right place to be. ”

“Some of the jobs are engineering jobs, so some are technical, and we hope to bring some new people to the community,” said Mike Kennedy, Kokomo Common Council president.

Kennedy explained the expansion of operations in Kokomo will coincide with the Chrysler plans announced in Tipton County.

“We’ll make all the parts here, and send them to Tipton to assemble,” said Kennedy.

The expansions are a welcome addition to residents.

“The idea behind it is fantastic. Kokomo is in need of expanding jobs, especially in industry. That's where we've been hit the hardest,” said Pat Quillen of Kokomo.

“That’s wonderful,” said Lisa Guy, also of Kokomo. “There are a lot of foreclosures around here and that would mean a lot to the community around here. ”

Chrysler representatives say they won't elaborate any further on their future plans in Kokomo.

They haven't yet released a timeline for when they may start hiring for new jobs there.