Now that the shock has somewhat eased of losing 1,100 jobs with the closing of the International Paper Co. mill, the town of Courtland is ready to battle back with the assistance of Gov. Robert Bentley.
Bentley has awarded the town a $32,000 Community Development Block Grant to help the community develop a recovery plan to overcome the mill’s shutdown in March and get on with its economic life.
“Planning grants are always useful tools in providing guidance and direction for cities and counties, but in the case of Courtland it is essential,” Bentley said. “Losing International Paper dealt a tremendous blow to Courtland and Lawrence County, but I am confident that the combination of a comprehensive recovery plan with the willpower of residents will go a long way in helping the community overcome the devastation and make a comeback.”
The plan, which will be developed by the North Central Alabama Regional Council, will examine the town’s current economic situation, develop a vision and long-range plan for recovery and propose concepts and strategies for attracting jobs and implementing growth. Development of the plan will consist of an eight-step process and will involve the mayor and town council, town employees, local stakeholders and residents.
Once a plan has been formulated and approved by the Town Council, the town will begin implementation.
The number of lost jobs at the plant is more than double the 609 residents in the town, and it also means the loss of more than half the town’s budget. International Paper Co. paid the town $771,000 annually in taxes.
In addition to awarding funding for the planning grant, Bentley has focused on helping the unemployed workers find new jobs. In June, the governor awarded an $83,755 to aid local career centers in helping affected employees with job searches, resume assistance, career counseling and job training and education opportunities.
Bentley notified Mayor Clarence Logston that the planning grant had been approved. No local funding is required.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the award from funds made available to the state by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
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Contact Jim Plott