Pottawatomie County officials issue statement on Caterpillar plant closure

WAMEGO ( KSNT ) – Pottawatomie county officials issued a joint statement regarding the closure of the Caterpillar facility in Wamego.

The Pottawatomie County Economic Development Corporation (PCEDC), the City of Wamego, Pottawatomie County and the Wamego Chamber of Commerce expressed disappointment in the closure and said the facility was an integral part of the local economy. County officials said they are implementing strategies to mitigate the impact on the community.

On June 6, Caterpillar Inc. announced it would shut down one of its locations in Wamego. The facility employed 300 people, according to the company. According to the Caterpillar website , Wamego was home to one of five of its facilities in Kansas and the company employs more than 450 people in the Sunflower State.

“We are already mobilizing to provide immediate resources and implement long-term strategies, including the development of a comprehensive regional taskforce to ensure efficient and thorough action.  Additionally, efforts are being accelerated to attract new industries and businesses to the region. This may include incentives for businesses that can provide stable employment opportunities and contribute to the economic diversification of our region.

Our number one priority will be to access the assets available as efficiently and inexpensively as possible to minimize the negative impact on the approximately 300 people employed here by the company.

We understand the uncertainty and anxiety this situation brings, but we remain hopeful and resolute in our efforts to turn this challenge into an opportunity for growth and renewal. Our commitment to the well-being of our community is unwavering, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our community emerges from this stronger and more resilient.”

Joint statement by Pottawatomie County, Wamego officials.

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