ST. CLOUD, Minn. - A bus manufacturer is asking for financial support from Stearns County taxpayers to help pay for a nearly $5 million expansion at its St. Cloud plant.

New Flyer says the expansion, including $3 million in new machinery and equipment, will generate 136 new jobs. New Flyer is asking Stearns County for a $250,000 interest-free loan. Commissioners are expected to consider that request Tuesday.

The St. Cloud Times ( http://on.sctimes.com/XCLw9d) says the city of St. Cloud has already approved a $100,000 loan for the project. New Flyer is also seeking a $1 million loan from the Minnesota Investment Fund.

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Information from: St. Cloud Times, http://www.sctimes.com