Gov. Bill Haslam speaks at Volkswagen Chattanooga in this file photo.NASHVILLE - Amid reports that Volkswagen and the United Auto Workers have begun negotiations for a works council at VW's Chattanooga plant, Gov. Bill Haslam said today he continues to have concerns about unions obtaining a toe hold.
"We've said all along our concern was on on two or three fronts," Haslam told reporters in Shelbyville as officials announced Calsonic Kansei North American Inc. will spend $109 million and add 1,200 new auto-related manufacturing jobs in Lewisburg, Shelbyville and Smyrna.
"No. 1, we have a [VW] plant and system that is working really well right now," the governor said. "No. 2, we have heard from other folks [companies] we're recruiting that that would be a damper on their enthusiasm for Tennessee."
Haslam added "we also are having a lot of conversations with Volkswagen. We feel very comfortable with our conversations with them."
The governor did not elaborate.