KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Graphic Packaging LLC. will be opening a new paper recycling plant in Kalamazoo as part of an expansion of existing Graphic Packaging properties in the city.
During a City Commission meeting Tuesday night, representatives from the company were invited to speak about the project.
Early expectations for the jobs created by the expansion are estimated at 25-50 new employees. Construction workers are expected to be in the 1000 range.
“All in all, we’ll be recycling about 900,000 tons of paper a year at that facility when we’re done in two and a half years,” Executive Vice President at Graphic Packaging International, LLC Mike Farrell said at the meeting.
Mayor Bobby Hopewell is encouraging the company to leave the felony conviction check box off of job application forms.
“We have to find paths and avenues for individuals to journey beyond something that they did as a mistake, because many of us have been allowed to journey beyond those mistakes in our lives,” Hopewell said.
Hopewell maintains that Graphic Packaging LLC. is appreciated in the Kalamazoo community.
“You bring jobs, you bring opportunities, and we appreciate you for that,” Hopewell said. “We appreciate you for looking at folks in the city to work and serve alongside you and be your colleagues. This community doesn’t run without economic development…but you are a vital cog in the wheel to the success of Kalamazoo.”
A public hearing on the subject is scheduled for September 17th at 7:00 p.m.
