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Galesburg Mayor Aims to Take Full Advantage of CAT Chances
"The opportunity to compete for that project, we're very excited about, here in the Galesburg community and surrounding area."

That's Galesburg Mayor Sal Garza describing the emotion behind being able to vie for Caterpillar's next manufacturing plant. The facility could create more than 1,000 jobs.

The Peoria-based corporation is scanning the entire North American continent for it's next site. Prior to Christmas, Galesburg city officials submitted a proposal to Caterpillar's headquarters to inform them Galesburg's own interest.

Garza tells WGIL Galesburg is trying to be the first to make an impression on the global juggernaut.

"Caterpillar never put a formal request or proposal for information," Garza said. "This is an initiative the Galesburg community took upon itself to provide that information. It's to ensure they have all of the information needed to incorporate into their decision making process."

Garza says Caterpillar acknowledged him the city's information had been received this week.

According to Garza, there's stiff competition ahead. He says that's why he plans on waging a substantial campaign to make the best of the opportunity.

The new Caterpillar plant would build smaller tractors and hydraulic excavators. The corporation's decision could be made as early as March.
01 06 12 by Newsroom
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