Efforts are underway to preserve a historic paper mill in Ohio and the jobs it supports. The Pixelle paper mill, located in Chillicothe, was scheduled to cease operations in the coming weeks, with plans to transfer most activities to Pennsylvania. This decision would affect approximately 800 workers in the region.
Responding to the announcement, leaders in Ohio, including U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno, expressed strong opposition. In communication with H.I.G. Capital, the investment firm that acquired the mill in 2022, concerns over the closure were labeled as ‘corporate greed.’ Recently, Moreno engaged in discussions with H.I.G. Capital, resulting in an agreement to delay the mill’s shutdown until the end of the year. This pause provides an opportunity to explore solutions that safeguard the jobs of Ohio workers.
In a gathering at the mill, Moreno was joined by U.S. Jon Husted, Governor Mike DeWine, and Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost to outline their strategy moving forward. The leaders emphasized their commitment to attracting investment that prioritizes local employment and supports the long-term viability of the mill. Moreno expressed optimism, stating confidence in the mill’s potential to thrive for many years to come.
Governor DeWine acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized a collective commitment to preserving the mill’s operations. The state officials pledged to exhaust all efforts to secure the future of the paper mill and safeguard the livelihoods it supports.