"There's no question that we are dealing with some bad news," said Hancock. "It is going to have an impact on the broader St. Louis region. Most workers at Chrysler do not actually live in Fenton.

"As far as taxes go, as long as the equipment and real estate are there, it's all still taxable, so Fenton does not feel quite as much of a pinch from that," noted Hancock. "On the other hand, we probably will feel some loss of sales tax receipts because of a downturn at local restaurants and some retail outlets."

Hancock said the one ace in the hole that the Fenton plant may still have is a potential deal with Nissan Motors to manufacture a new Nissan model truck in the future.

Chrysler has reportedly been in talks with Nissan which may result in a unique equipment manufacturer agreement.... // Webster Kirkwood Times