Spring Hill GM Workers are Secure Despite Global Layoffs

Issue #186

21 Aug

In this What’s Up Columbia issue…

🗓 List of Upcoming Events

☀️ Columbia Weather - Sunny with a high of 84

📰 Spring Hill GM Workers are Secure Despite Global Layoffs

📰 Columbia Secures Bond Deal, Saves Taxpayers Millions for New Wastewater Plant

📌 Today: Suncatcher Art Program at Farmers Market Pavilion

🪴 Saturday: Plant Swap at Vida Nova Coffee Lounge

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

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🗓 Know of Some Local Events Not Listed? Send us the Details!

Upcoming Local Events

🗓 Have an event to add? Send us the Details!

Wednesday, August 21st

Thursday, August 22nd

Friday, August 23rd

Saturday, August 24th

Spring Hill GM Workers are Secure Despite Global Layoffs

Credit: gm.com

General Motors announced on Monday that it will be laying off more than 1,000 salaried employees in its software and services division globally. However, the GM plant in Spring Hill, Tennessee, appears to be unaffected by these cuts, according to a representative from the facility.

The Spring Hill plant employs over 3,000 workers and is responsible for producing vehicles such as the Cadillac XT5, Cadillac XT6, and the second-generation GMC Acadia. The layoffs were initially reported by CNBC and are linked to an operational review following the departure of GM executive Mike Abbott, who left his position as executive vice president of software and services in March due to health issues.

The decision to reduce staff in the Software and Services division is part of GM’s broader strategy to streamline operations, make decisive choices, and focus on investments that will drive the company’s future growth. While the layoffs are significant, GM remains committed to leading the automotive industry as it continues to build its future.

The Spring Hill plant has a long history, having originally opened in 1990 to manufacture Saturn cars. Over the years, it has expanded to a massive 11 million-square-foot facility where both electric and gas-powered vehicles are assembled. In November 2023, the plant’s workforce played a crucial role in resolving a nationwide strike, which resulted in a 25% increase in pay across the board, with top wages reaching $50 an hour, and a 10% 401(k) retirement contribution.

The 2023 union negotiations also led to the elimination of a tiered wage system that had seen temporary workers earning as little as $16 per hour, while full-time employees in similar roles earned $30 or more per hour.

Columbia Secures Bond Deal, Saves Taxpayers Millions for New Wastewater Plant

The City of Columbia is pleased to announce the successful closing of its municipal bonds, resulting in substantial financial savings for local taxpayers. These bonds, which will fund the construction of a new Wastewater Treatment Plant, reflect the city’s strategic financial planning. Standard & Poor’s (S&P) has reaffirmed the city’s strong financial position with an AA+ credit rating, the second-highest possible. This rating is a testament to the city’s fiscal discipline and long-term financial stewardship. S&P also upgraded Columbia’s financial management metric from “strong” to “very strong,” highlighting the ongoing enhancements in the city’s financial practices.

The successful bond issuance was the result of careful planning and collaboration between city officials and Financial Advisor Elizabeth Zuelke of Raymond James. The decision to time the bond closing for optimal market conditions, ahead of potential disruptions due to the upcoming national election, was instrumental in securing the best possible terms.

The City Council approved the bond issue on July 11, authorizing the funds to be used for the construction and equipping of the new wastewater treatment plant, acquisition of necessary property, and covering associated costs. The bonds were issued under Tennessee state law, ensuring transparency and compliance throughout the process. This successful bond issuance marks a significant step forward in the City of Columbia’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing essential public services while ensuring long-term financial stability.

Today: Suncatcher Art Program at Farmers Market Pavilion

Brighten your day with a splash of color at Riverwalk Park’s Farmers Market Pavilion! Join us for a free, family-friendly Suncatcher Art Program from 4pm to 6pm. All ages are welcome to explore their creativity and craft vibrant suncatchers that will dazzle in the sunlight. Whether you’re a budding artist or just looking for a fun, relaxing activity, this event is perfect for everyone. Don’t miss out on the chance to create something beautiful and enjoy a community evening of artistic fun!

Saturday: Plant Swap at Vida Nova Coffee Lounge

Join us for a delightful (FREE) Plant Swap at Vida Nova Coffee Lounge in Columbia!

This community event is perfect for plant enthusiasts of all levels to come together, share their green treasures, and discover new additions for their gardens and indoor spaces. Bring your healthy, pest-free plants and cuttings to swap with fellow plant lovers.

Whether you're looking for a rare find or just starting your collection, there’s something for everyone!

In addition to the plant swap, treat yourself to delicious coffee from Vida Nova Coffee Lounge and check out art from Cinder Bella Studios and other local artists.

Date: Saturday | August 24th, 2024

Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Location: Vida Nova Coffee Lounge | 307 W 11th St level 3, Columbia, TN 38401

Don't miss this chance to connect with other plant enthusiasts, enjoy the charming atmosphere of Vida Nova, and support local artisans.

We can't wait to see you there!

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

Wednesday, August 21st

Rhonda Funk, Puckett’s, 6-7:30 PM

Thursday, August 22nd

Todd Ciprian, Tito's Spring Hill, 6-9 PM
Josey Clay, Puckett's, 6-7:30 PM
The Alderson Jazz Collective, McCreary's Irish Pub, 7-9 PM

Friday, August 23rd

Nick Bentley, Meat Social, 6-8 PM
Kiana Renae, Grinder's Switch Winery, 7-9 PM
November Blue, McCreary's Irish Pub, 7-9 PM
The Howlin Embers, Puckett’s, 7:30-9 PM
Zone Status, Fozzy's Bar & Grill, 8-11 PM

Saturday, August 24th

422 West, Hampshire Hills Distillery, 2-6 PM
Steven Cade, Keg Springs Winery, 2-5 PM
Grasskickers, Amber Falls Winery, 3-7 PM
Johnny Jameson & the Empty Pints, The Tilted Mule, 7 PM
Music on the Porch, 600 North Main Street, 7-9 PM
Tim Turner Band, McCreary's Irish Pub, 7-9 PM
Cole Ritter, Puckett’s, 7:30-9 PM
MFT, The Rebel, 7:30 PM
South Bound Crows, Fozzy's Bar & Grill, 8-11 PM

Sunday, August 25th

Jim Fox Trio, Amber Falls Winery, 1-5 PM
Jeffrey Joslin, Puckett's, 6-7:30 PM
1 & Dun, The Rebel, 4 PM
The Reveal Acoustic, Fozzy's Bar & Grill, 5-8 PM
Bridges and Backroads Concert, The Old Mill Barn, 7-9 PM

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