William Hall: Lobby for Alfa Romeo plant in Janesville

William Hall  —  6/05/2008 5:28 am

Dear Editor:

Now is the time to be proactive in the impending closure of the GM Janesville plant and attract a business to catapult the factory into the global marketplace.

Italian automaker Alfa Romeo is actively looking for a North American plant and work force for 2011 domestic vehicle production. The company has already been courted by delegations from Kentucky, Georgia and Ontario seeking to fill their empty auto plants.

Alfas have not been sold stateside since 1993, but are a strong brand overseas and maintain a loyal following in America. Their current cars are upscale, sporty and fuel efficient -- and the brand is distinguished by its striking Italian styling and technical innovation such as peppy turbo-diesel engines.

GM, the UAW, state and local government should take the initiative to begin a dialogue with Alfa's parent company, Fiat. Fiat already does business in Wisconsin with its Case-IH business in Racine. State tax and development incentives should be offered to secure the Alfa factory and align with this premium global brand. A Janesville Alfa Romeo plant could be a high-tech infused facility with a forward-thinking, attractive product -- but the city and state will have to lobby for it, and not a moment should be wasted.

William Hall

president, Alfa Romeo Owners Club of Wisconsin

Milwaukee

William Hall  —  6/05/2008 5:28 am