Sen. Jerry Alvord, R-Wilson, issued the following statement on Friday following the announcement of the closure of the Michelin tire plant in Ardmore.
“Yesterday afternoon I met with Michelin representatives, Bill Murphy President & CEO of the Ardmore Chamber of Commerce and Ardmore Development Authority, Kevin Boatwright the Ardmore City Manager, State Rep. Tammy Townley and State Rep. Josh Cantrell.
“Earlier in the day, we all were informed of the announced closure of the Michelin tire plant in Ardmore. The abruptness of this announcement caught everyone off guard, including those in the industry. This decision will undoubtedly have a significant economic impact on our community, and the loss of jobs is deeply distressing. Our thoughts are with the hardworking employees and their families who will be affected by this unfortunate development. I understand the importance of job stability and economic security and will work tirelessly to help bring new opportunities to our community and great state.
“All of us are in agreement that as Michelin closes down operations over the next two years, we must immediately work together to not only process this news, but consider what options might be available as we look ahead. Murphy said it well, ‘This plant has been an anchor not only in Ardmore but throughout southern Oklahoma’s economy, providing hundreds of well-paying jobs for more than 50 years.’
“We remain steadfast in our concern for the dedicated employees of the plant during this transition.
“The immediate response from employers in local industry and businesses, as well as outreach from our education partners, Murray State College & Southern Tech, has been impressive. The job market has been looking for hard working, skilled employees and we feel confident great opportunities await many employees as they transition into other local businesses. We have a large variety of family-owned and corporate businesses that have invested in South Central Oklahoma for many years. Our partners at the Ardmore Chamber and Ardmore Development Authority are working with existing and prospective companies on additional investments and job opportunities that will help many workers through this transition phase.
“We are all sensitive to the hardships that will be experienced, and we will do all that we can to alleviate these stressful times, working together to develop economic opportunities.”
