Canton paper mill’s final whistle will blow Wednesday, May 24, at noon, marking the beginning of the shutdown of the town’s largest employer, according to Canton Mayor Zeb Smathers who made the announcement Monday on Twitter.
Pactiv Evergreen announced the closure in March, which came as a surprise to many in the community. At the announcement, the last day was expected to be in early June. Local and state officials have worked help mill employees with everything from employment to health care.
The announcement of the paper mill closure leaves residents and leaders with more questions than answers. State and local leaders hope to not only rebuild the economic stability of the town but also hold Pactiv Evergreen accountable for the $12 million it received in state funds as an economic incentive for job creation.
Canton Mayor Zeb Smathers said local, state and national leaders are working together to address the challenges.
The mill has been in operation since 1908 and employs around 1,200 people, most who work at the main plant in Canton. Governor Roy Cooper launched a website to share information and resources for people in western North Carolina who are looking for jobs, news about the closure, mental health resources and more.
It is with a heavy heart, that I can announce, with confirmation from Evergreen, that the last mill whistle will blow at 12 noon this Wednesday, May 24 #milltownforever
— Zeb L. Smathers (@ZebSmathers) May 22, 2023
