NOT ALL RESIDENTS UPSET
Another Green Charter Township resident, Ormand Hook, is also fiercely opposed to Gotion’s plans.
He joined a group that helped overthrow the township’s board of trustees who supported the EV factory proposal.
“Why is America voluntarily surrendering to the economic wishes of China?” he questioned. “In the old days, we fought wars with bombs and bayonets. Now it’s through the world of business.”
Nevertheless, not all residents are upset.
Small business owner Carlleen Rose and her friend Jim Chapman said they think the EV plant could breathe life back into the township, which is located in one of the poorest counties in Michigan.
Supporting Gotion’s plans has not come without consequences. Chapman was tossed out as the township’s supervisor for supporting the project, while Rose said aggression at local meetings made her fearful.
“I was actually taking mace with me. Now, that is ridiculous. I never thought, ever, in my town that I would experience what I experienced,” she added.
“At 70 years of age, I have no intentions of keeping my mouth shut about this even though many people would like me to.”
The pair, who said they are not receiving incentives from Gotion, stressed that they do not support China’s Communist Party.
They said Gotion is not affiliated to the party, and laughed at the suggestion that the firm will spy on Americans.
Chapman quipped: “What are they going to do? Come on in and spy! What are you going to get? Carlleen’s fudge recipe?”
