10:43 AM MDT on Wednesday, April 27, 2005

Associated Press

THE DALLES, Ore. - Google is now one step closer to The Dalles.

The Internet search company wants to build a technology facility on land in The Dalles and Wasco County.

The company is seeking an enterprise zone tax exemption to seal the deal.

City council members approved that exemption this week.

Enterprise zone designations are granted to a limited number of cities in Oregon, based upon unemployment and wage levels.

They offer tax exemptions to businesses that bring development and jobs to these communities.

Google has also asked for the installation of a fiberoptic ring to serve the property.

And the company wants an available power connection from the Bonneville Power Administration.