Cobo expansion might also include creation of tax-free zone

Legislation that will create a "tax-free" zone at Michigan convention centers will be announced this week, boosting efforts to draw more shows to Cobo Center. Plan proponent Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano is also hopeful that the Governor's office will be contributing $150 million towards the $287 million expansion plan.

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"We are hopeful that Gov. Granholm and the state will assist with the Cobo expansion plan," Ficano said. "Such support will help ensure that the region continues to benefit from the powerful economic impact generated by Cobo and the auto show."

House Speaker Andy Dillon, D-Redford Township, supports the idea of tax-free zones as an economic-development measure, said his press secretary, Greg Bird.

"This is one piece of an overall proposal that we hope will help grow economic activity in Southeast Michigan and perhaps other areas of the state," Bird said.

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