CHILLICOTHE, Ohio (From news reports) -- Pixelle Specialty Solutions LLC has sold its closed Chillicothe mill to U.S. Paper Mill, LLC, an affiliate of U.S. Medical Glove Company, bringing hope to almost 800 workers who lost their jobs when it closed.
The new owner plans to keep manufacturing going at the site and bring jobs back to the area.
After shutting down the mill, Pixelle teamed up with Ohio officials at all levels and JobsOhio to find a buyer who would keep employing local workers and protect jobs in Ross County.
Melvin Beverly worked in shipping and receiving at the mill for three years before getting laid off. He said the sale gives workers hope, even though pay might decrease from about $26 an hour to about $21.
"It sends a great message for Chillicothe because that was going to tear our economy up," Beverly said. "A lot of people don't understand the money that people was making down there. You can't make it here, nowhere else."
Pixelle is putting all $5.5 million it made from the sale into an account for local unions and workers who lost their jobs. $1 million will be distributed right away, with the rest coming after certain conditions are met.
The company is still helping laid-off workers with career counseling, job search help and access to its Employee Assistance Program.
"Chillicothe has been an important part of Pixelle's history, and we are deeply grateful to the employees and families who supported this mill for decades," said Julie Schertell, president and chief executive officer. "While it was an extremely difficult decision to discontinue operations in Chillicothe, we are grateful and hopeful that this outcome best positions Chillicothe and its residents for the future."
"I am focused on protecting American jobs and thrilled that U.S. Medical Glove Company's purchase of Pixelle's Chillicothe paper mill will create significant jobs for the people of Ross County by focusing on American-made healthcare products," Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, said. "I am grateful for the support and partnership provided by Pixelle to ensure the best outcome for the people of Chillicothe."
The new company is looking over operations now and will share what's next soon.
