Michigan Works! has increased staff to help the paper mill workers
MANISTIQUE -- These are uncertain times in Manistique with Manistique Papers ceasing production, filing for bankruptcy, and seeking a new buyer. And unless this new buyer is found soon, 150 workers will be facing unemployment.
This is a blow to the Schoolcraft County economy that's already been struggling since the shutdown of Camp Manistique four years ago.
Manistique City Manager, Sheila Aldrich, said there are a few buyers interested in the paper mill, which makes recycled fiber content.
Holly Peoples of Michigan Works! said she hopes to get that phone call saying a buyer has been found for Manistique Papers. Still, Michigan Works! has ramped up the number of staff who're ready to help these soon-to-be unemployed workers.
“We really want to take each individual's needs into consideration,” explains Peoples. “We don't want to have a 'one size fits all' approach because people's goals are going to be different."
As of Monday, none of the 150 workers have filed for unemployment yet. They're still at the mill during this shutting down process. But the Michigan Works! staff is ready to counsel them through all their opportunities, whether it be job relocation or even returning to school.
But residents are concerned about a trickle effect.
“Here we are today with another closure in the Manistique area,” said Manistique resident, Paul Walker. “This is a huge hit to the economy. Where these folks are going to go, I don't know."
And although there are a lot of unknowns right now, the community is trying to stay hopeful.
“For the employees and the families,” explains Aldrich, “we will work as a community to weather this storm."
But Manistique won’t be alone. Other manufacturing companies from Marinette and Menominee Counties have expressed interest in hiring the mill workers.
Michigan Works! will be holding an informational session for the workers Thursday, Friday, and Monday at the Manistique High School Auditorium. It’ll take place at 9 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.
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