NC commerce secretary defends need for more incentives money

RALEIGH, NC (AP) — A top advocate of Gov. Pat McCrory’s request for more money for North Carolina business incentives is facing skepticism from Senate Republicans who believe lower tax rates is the better way to attract companies.

Commerce Secretary John Skvarla spoke Tuesday at a Senate Finance Committee meeting. He’s backing a plan the House approved two weeks ago to increase the cap on Job Development Investment Grant program awards by $15 million. It also would include $20 million to help improve infrastructure like water, sewer and gas lines.

Sen. Bob Rucho of Matthews suggested to Skvarla lowering rates is the better way for job creation without incentives. Skvarla says an improved tax climate is important but North Carolina can’t compete right now with other states because it’s out of grant program funds.

(Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)