CHILLICOTHE, Ohio (From news reports) -- The Ross County Board of Commissioners continues to lead coordinated efforts, including weekly response meetings in conjunction with stakeholders and partners, to respond ot the closure of the Chillicothe paper mill and is intensifying its work to position the site for future investment and long-term economic strength.
Continued efforts in marketing this site, and developing a long-term approach to support economic growth is critical and must be collaborative. As a part of response efforts, Ross County recently commissioned an economic impact analysis which was performed by the Montrose Group, LLC, using tested economic principles and relevant data. The results of this analysis estimate a total economic loss of $1 billion across multiple industry sectors in the region.
Efforts to market the site have yielded multiple visits by potential investors in paper and other manufacturing industries, a number of which remain engaged. This effort, led by JobsOhio and supported by local stakeholders, is still ongoing. Continued efforts to grow & diversify the Ross County economy extend beyond the Chillicothe paper mill site, and the Ross County Commissioners are committed to an aggressive approach to position the community for long-term resiliency.
Despite earlier public statements made by H.I.G. Capital and Pixelle that the facility would remain operational through the end of 2025, it has become increasingly clear that at least some operations may cease prior to that date. Local stakeholders have worked aggressively with partners at the state and federal level to prolong operations as long as possible. Though local stakeholders hope operations continue and closure is delayed, the Ross County Commissioners and their partners are working to mitigate immediate impacts and support employees.
In direct response, Ross County is taking decisive steps to support the possibility of displaced employees. In partnership with workforce development agencies and other stakeholders, several support initiatives are being launched, including:
- Paper Mill Employee Resource Center:
Opening June 9 at the Chillicothe & Ross County Public Library (130 South Paint Street), the center wil provide immediate assistance, career services, and transitional support for impacted workers. Public hours and additional details will be announced in the
coming days.
- Online Resource Hub:
Adedicated website is being developed to offer centralized information, services, and updates for those affected by the closure. The site is expected to launch in the coming days.
- On-Site Support at Pixelle:
South Central Ohio Job and Family Services is preparing to deploy on-site personnel and resources at the Pixelle facility, should they be needed, to provide direct support to employees.
"The local effort in response to the paper mill closure has been the eminent priority for the Ross
County Board of Commissioners, which has included supporting efforts to market the site to a new investor, harbor resources for employee support, as well as long-term planning for redevelopment and economic growth for Chillicothe & Ross County" said the Ross County Commissioners. "We are not standing still. We are fighting daily to attract new investment, ready the site for new opportunity, and ensure a vibrant economic future for generations to come."
Additionally, the Ross County Commissioners are spearheading discussions around innovative alternative uses for the Pixelle site as long-term contingency strategies are developed. These conversations aim to explore forward-thinking redevelopment opportunities that could preserve or even enhance the economic potential of the location.
This work remains ongoing and includes an aggressive, multi-pronged strategy focused on site readiness, targeted outreach, and long-term job creation. Ross County continues to collaborate closely with regional and state leaders, private-sector partners, and the federal delegation to advance opportunities for growth.
