Canadian Security Firm Garda Moving HQ To Boca Raton
MONTREAL (CBS4) - Governor Rick Scott has announced that Canadian armored car and ATM maintenance company Garda World Security Corp, is moving its U.S. headquarters from Pasadena, California, to Boca Raton effective this month.
The relocation will create approximately 100 new professional jobs in Florida at an average wage of more than $65,000.
The deal was finalized last February, but Scott, who is in Canada on a five day trade mission, held a news conference Wednesday to promote the planned move as part of his administration's effort to lure jobs to the state.
"This announcement speaks volumes about the strides we are taking to create the best business environment in the U.S.," Scott said in remarks planned for the Montreal news conference. "Many companies here in Canada have expressed their desire to do business with Florida because of our excellent business climate and commitment to cut taxes and grow jobs - proof that we are capturing the attention of the business community worldwide."
A local economic development estimate said the move will generate $44 million in economic activity in the Boca Raton area over five years.
Boca Raton beat out Broadview, Illinois and Wilmington, Delaware, for the headquarters, according to the company's application. Scott noted that California, Illinois and Delaware all have higher corporate income tax rates than Florida, so the move would save the company money.
"We have been extremely impressed with the vibrant business climate that the state of Florida is working to create. We appreciate the cooperation and economic incentives extended to us by the state, Palm Beach County and the City of Boca Raton and look forward to contributing to this growing economy," said Garda President and CEO Stephan Cretier in a statement.
Palm Beach County on Jan. 11 voted to give the company $210,000 as a local contribution to what was reported as a $1 million total package. Local media in January also reported that the city of Boca Raton had already kicked in $210,000, and that the state was planning on contributing $580,000.
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