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State panel considers Google expansion plan

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April 20th, 2012 by Ric Hanson

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – The California-based Internet giant Google is considering making another $300 million investment in Council Bluffs that officials say could give the state and region a big boost. The new project, which would hinge on approval of state support, would bring Google’s investment in Iowa to about $900 million. It would create 35 jobs initially and 15 more later.  Council Bluffs Mayor Tom Hanafan says he’s encourage by the type of potential jobs more than the number of workers. He says Google offers high-tech positions that pay well, including current positions that pay more than $50,000 a year. State funding for the Council Bluffs project is being considered Friday by the state’s economic development board, which also is studying proposals that could bring $471 million in investment to Iowa.