700 laid-off meat-processing workers in Fresno thrown life line after settlement reached

A San Joaquin Valley meat processor that already announced 178 layoffs in Fresno will retain hundreds of other jobs for at least a year as part of a state lawsuit settlement announced on Thursday.

The state Attorney General’s Office announced the settlement reached in Los Angeles Superior Court in which the court will require the Fresno Cargill beef processing plant to remain open for at least a year while retaining its 700 employees , who will be paid the same or more, the court records show.

Hanford-based Central Valley Meat Company bought Cargill Meat Solutions in May , spurring the layoffs of the 178 workers.

The state Attorney General’s Office followed that announcement by filing a complaint, arguing the acquisition could not only lead to hundreds of more layoffs but also eliminate competition in the market and hurt those companies selling cattle.

“The Central Valley has fed California and the U.S. for decades, and today I am proud to have secured the continued operation of an important processing plant and protection of 700 jobs for at least 12 months.” Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a news release.

Cargill and Central Valley Meat are two of the largest cattle processors in the San Joaquin Valley that purchase the animals culled from milk producers.

The AG’s Office said in its Thursday announcement it initiated litigation over concern the acquisition could suppress prices for cattle sellers, reduce the labor market and lower wages for employees.

The Central Valley Meat Holding Company employs more than 2,000 people at four different companies: Central Valley Meat, Harris Ranch Beef , Harris Ranch Feeding and CLW Foods.

“We are pleased to have finalized the acquisition of the Fresno Cargill plant,” Central Valley Meat CEO Brian Coelho said in a statement. “Maintaining the capacity of this plant is the most desirable outcome for producers. This acquisition is preventing additional layoffs in the industry, and our goal is to continue to grow the industry in California.”

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