Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds visited Iowa Protein Solutions Tuesday as part of the governor's Operation Thank You - to visit existing businesses around the state to get their ideas on how they can grow their business and invest more in Iowa.
The governor's stops Tuesday also included Polaris Industries in Spirit Lake and an educational town hall meeting in Algona.
Branstad said later this fall he plans on working with leaders of both parties to reduce Iowa commercial and property taxes.
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Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds visited Iowa Protein Solutions Tuesday as part of the governor’s Operation Thank You tour of business and industry around the state. From left are Iowa Ag Secretary Bill Northey, Lt. Gov. Reynolds, Ella, Amy, Sam and Doug Skinner, Iowa Protein Solutions owner, and Gov. Branstad.
EDN photo by Michael Tidemann
Reynolds said that on this tour she and the governor are also asking businesses if they see any barriers to doing business in Iowa.
So after weathering a four-year recession along with the rest of the country, just how is the business climate in Iowa?
"I think it's improving," said Branstad, noting unemployment taxes were down $95 million last year and that there was no penalty for businesses adding payroll or property. Branstad also noted the research and development tax credit has benefitted a lot of businesses.
"We have a really great workforce," noted Reynolds.