Chad did not mind. He knew that most of the time, knowing too much would only turn out troublesome, especially since he was not a formidable person.
Thankful, Chad quickly excused himself and walked over to the podium.
Chad then began to give an unnecessary opening speech to introduce the plot of land for formality’s sake.
Meanwhile, Mr. Powers and Jasper began to chat privately between themselves below.
“Mr. Laine, the higher-ups state that as long as what you spoke of was the truth, then we’re willing to provide the best discounts for you,” Mr. Powers relayed.
Jasper was not surprised. It was a large investment, one every city in the country needed. Reed City’s stance on the matter was rather satisfactory.
“What are the specifics?” Jasper asked.
“The tax payable for your business in Reed City for the first five years would be free for the first two, then for the following three, there’ll be a 50% discount. Tax for the next five years after that will also be halved. Tax will only be paid in full after the ten-year mark. In return, Mr. Laine, you are required to employ at least 4,000 local workers,” Mr. Powers explained.
“No problem. There’s no way I’d look for workers from elsewhere. This is a very logical request,” Jasper replied.
The duo’s discussion had a great start and Mr. Powers smiled as he continued to speak, “The city government will be in charge of the traffic and road work around your electronic equipment factory. The city government also promises at least three public transport routes to your factory.
“In the future, should Reed City begin constructing railway lines, the city government promises that your electronics factory will be our first target to consider.”
Jasper nodded expressionlessly. Pointing at Chad, he smiled. “Then comes the most important question. What about his plot of land?”
Mr. Powers’ expression turned stern. He knew that the conversation now involved the main benefit.
The current situation was that Jasper wanted the plot of land for his factory, while the city government also needed Jasper’s 600 to 700 million investment as well as occupational quotas. It was a win-win situation.
However, the issue now was that Marcus and his friends wanted to make Jasper lose money, and Jasper refused to let that happen.
Therefore, Marcus and his friends’ existence was already affecting the city government’s plan and Reed City’s development.
After a quick moment of thought, Mr. Powers clenched his jaw as he thought back to what the higher-ups had told him and he replied, “To be frank with you, Mr. Laine, the city government is on your side. After all, there’s a big problem with Fortune Co., Ltd’s internal system. We’ve actually been investigating them in secret.”
“None of that matters to me. I’m just a businessman, but Marcus seems unwilling to leave me alone. I planned to buy this plot of land with 200 million but because of them, I’m going to end up paying at least 400 to 500 million for it. Does this seem cost-effective to you at all?” Jasper spoke calmly.
In face of Jasper who was unwilling to concede, Mr. Powers felt both frustrated and exasperated. Yet such was the current situation, and finding ways to resolve this was difficult.
Not to mention that Jasper’s request was indeed very rational and reasonable. The city government’s dignity was on the line if anyone found out about this.
“No matter what happens at the bid today, the city government will only take 200 million from you to transfer the property to your name.” Mr. Powers promised on behalf of the city government.
Jasper smiled calmly but was not surprised. Instead, he asked meaningfully, “Would the city government be interested in watching a performance, then?”
At that, Mr. Powers looked confused and shocked.
