Cedar Springs Containerboard Mill Closes, Impacting Community

News Summary

The closure of the Cedar Springs Containerboard mill in Early County has left approximately 535 employees jobless and poses a significant economic challenge to the local community. The mill’s closure is expected to result in an estimated $6.5 million loss in tax revenue and additional millions in wages. Local officials are implementing measures to support affected workers, including job placement resources and community job fairs. This marks the end of a five-decade era for the mill, emphasizing the risks faced by economies heavily reliant on single industries.

Cedar Springs, Georgia – The Cedar Springs Containerboard mill in Early County is officially closing today, leaving approximately 535 employees without jobs. The announcement of the mill’s closure was made on May 14, allowing workers a 60-day window to prepare for their future employment. This decision represents a significant blow to the local economy, which has relied heavily on the mill for over five decades.

The closure is expected to have a widespread financial impact, with local officials estimating an economic loss of around $6.5 million in tax revenue for Early County, alongside an anticipated range of $8 to $17 million in lost wages. Georgia-Pacific, the parent company of the facility, has stated that production at the Cedar Springs mill has ceased, with only a small number of staff remaining to assist during the shutdown process.

To aid those affected, Georgia-Pacific has committed to providing impacted employees with access to local job placement resources and support agencies. Additionally, a state task force has been activated to help facilitate job opportunities for the displaced workforce. Georgia Labor Commissioner Barbara Rivera Holmes and State Representative Gerald Greene are actively involved in efforts to support these workers.

Beyond the direct impact on employees, local businesses are also feeling the effects of the mill’s closure. Odom’s Country Cafe, a restaurant in the area, has closed its doors since the announcement was made in May, highlighting the interconnected nature of the local economy. Communities in Early County are expressing concerns about potential property tax increases and financial challenges as families prepare for back-to-school expenses amidst these significant economic changes.

Local government leaders are taking proactive measures by implementing budget cuts in anticipation of the closing. This includes freezing non-essential purchases, placing a halt on new hiring, and limiting pay increases to stabilize finances in the wake of the impending economic downturn.

The Cedar Springs mill has been a vital part of the community since its inception in the 1960s, producing over one million tons of cardboard products annually. The decision to close was influenced by multiple factors, particularly the belief that the mill could not sustain competitive operations in the long term. This closure not only marks the end of an era for the mill but also signifies the economic challenges faced by regions heavily reliant on a single industry.

As a result of the closure, community efforts are underway to support displaced workers. Local job fairs are being organized, and connections with potential employers in the region are being established to assist those seeking new employment opportunities. The mill’s closure also raises concerns regarding its ripple effects on suppliers, the timber industry, and various service sectors connected to the mill’s operations.

Georgia-Pacific is planning to shift some production to other mills located in Virginia, Oregon, Mississippi, and Alabama. While some employees will remain to assist in the decommissioning and transition process, the future of many workers remains uncertain.

The closure of the Cedar Springs Containerboard mill serves as a stark reminder of the volatility that can exist within local economies that depend on a single industry. Local officials are already working on strategies to attract new industries to the area, aiming to lessen the economic blow and foster a more diverse economic landscape for Early County moving forward.

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