Boeing was in the process of expansion for the 777 in Mukilteo, mid-90s I think. A local planning 'official' decided that Boeing would be charged $50 million for impacts to expand a plant already in place. The $$$ would go toward parks, etc, nothing related to the facility.
Boeing complained. The planning official was asked...why $50M for civic improvements? Why that number?
The answer..."Because I could."
Boeing's then Chairman of the Board (maybe CEO) gave a speech (at the local CofC I think)where he warned the local governments and WA State that if things didn't improve there would be no new Boeing plants in the state.
The threat wasn't taken seriously. That's why HQ for the parent company was moved to Chicago. Then Charleston.
The LOeft...they either ignore you or threaten you.
Thanks for the info. Not really suprising.