CHILLICOTHE, OHIO – The following can be attributed to Mike Throne, president and CEO of the Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce:

It’s been 178 days since the beginning of the end of papermaking in Chillicothe. That’s a long, tough spring and summer. Today, our community takes a new path forward with the announcement that U.S. Paper Mill Co. LLC is the new owner of the former paper mill location in the heart of Chillicothe.

On behalf of our Chamber investors and the entire community, I would like to extend sincere thanks to U.S. Paper Mill Co. LLC for choosing Chillicothe as the location for your operations. Your decision to invest in our former paper mill site demonstrates vision that aligns perfectly with our own - creating opportunity and driving positive change. We look forward to the reinvention of the paper mill site and Ross County's manufacturing future.

In Chillicothe, you've found more than a location - you've found a partner. Our businesses, local government, educational institutions, and residents are committed to your success. We understand that when our companies thrive, our community prospers.

The opportunity to provide living-wage jobs is the most valuable aspect of your investment. In Ross County, you'll find a skilled and dedicated workforce ready to contribute to your mission, with a Chamber prepared to connect you with valuable resources and partnerships.

Chillicothe is experiencing exciting developments, from our city-wide renaissance to our status as the heart of Ohio’s first World Heritage site. Your arrival adds significant momentum to this positive trajectory.

Welcome to Chillicothe. We look forward to celebrating many successes together in the years ahead.

To our community, thank you for your resilience and patience as our leaders and their partners navigated these challenging times. Today’s announcement is a welcome first step, but the job is not done. Let’s keep working together to ensure a better future for all of Ross County.