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Senator Raises Job-Loss Fears In U.S. Sugar Buyout

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By CATHERINE DOLINSKI | The Tampa Tribune

Published: August 25, 2008

Sen. J.D. Alexander wrote Gov. Charlie Crist today demanding "a conceptual plan outlining your commitment to preserving the thousands of jobs that are in jeopardy" because of the $1.75 billion buyout of U.S. Sugar that Crist announced in July.

Crist has pledged, somewhat vaguely, to stem the bleeding of jobs likely to result if U.S. Sugar leaves Florida. If Crist does not produce hard details for proposed economic relief, Alexander, R-Winter Haven, cannot support the buyout, he said.

"U.S. Sugar has been a major employer for decades, as well as a leader in shaping agricultural policy. Your commitment to ensuring that the sugar and citrus facilities continue to provide both employment and an opportunity to process two of Florida's leading commodities is critical to the State of Florida."

It remains unclear how much, if any, support Crist will need from state lawmakers for the deal. The intended buyout is between U.S. Sugar and the South Florida Water Management District, and the latter claims it will be able to foot the bill by borrowing the money.

Water district officials have a plan for paying back the money by redirecting the district's property tax collections – rather than digging into state coffers.

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