Ann Arbor used its advantages to get Pfizer concessions.(tax-abatement agreement)(Brief Article)

Crain's Detroit Business, December, 2001 by Bailey, Laura

Experts agree that the tax-abatement agreement between Pfizer Global Research & Development and the city of Ann Arbor is unique in Michigan but doubt it will set a precedent for communities to play hardball with corporations. Ann Arbor could negotiate with Pfizer, rather than beg in the face of a $600 million to $800 million investment, because of its prime location, said Fred Dillingham, executive director of the Economic Development Council of Livingston County.

``I don't think it sets a trend. There are a lot more communities who are hungry for economic development and economic growth and that recognize in basic terms that they have to create incentives,'' Dillingham said. The 50 percent tax abatement encompasses property and buildings to be added over...

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