x
Breaking News
More () »

Telfair County leaders working to keep major employer Husqvarna open

The Husqvarna plant in McRae could close if the Swedish-based company does not sell it to a new buyer, leaving 1,000 people without jobs next year.

Telfair County's largest employer could shut down next year, and that would put around 1,000 people out of work. The Husqvarna Company says it plans to either sell or close the lawnmower company in McRae.

The plant on Oak Street is like a second family for some people living in Telfair County.

Mary Burley worked there for about 14 years.

"I loved working at the plant when I was there because we have a lot of good people who were working there," said Burley.

Now her son-in-law works there. Burley says she knows about 500 people in the county employed through the Swedish-based lawnmower company. She has concerns about it possibly closing to increase the company's profits.

"I hope and pray that they get someone to buy it instead of it going down because there are a lot of people that need to work," said Burley.

Mayor Mike Young says the local government met with the company reps to talk about options for investors. If the plant closes, he says it could affect not only the 1,000 employees working there, but local business as well.

"Our convenience stores, our grocery stores, it could have an impact that just keeps on giving, so

it could be very detrimental to our community," said Mayor Young.

The company says it plans to stop making things like push mowers and snow throwers in McRae.

The company says the plant will close around June 2019 unless they have a buyer.

"I'm really optimistic, but of course, you can't sell a false hope, but we are promoting optimism.

This will be something we are going to work on over the next several months," said Mayor Young.

For Burley, the uncertainty is stressful, but she says it's all about faith in the people.

"All they have to do is keep trust in God and he will make a way," said Burley.

Mayor Young says the local government has to get in touch with Sweden to see exactly how much the plant is worth.

Before You Leave, Check This Out