Chillicothe Ohio Paper Mill Plans August Closure, 780 Jobs Lost

The Pixelle paper mill in Chillicothe is set to close by August 10, 2025, resulting in the loss of approximately 780 jobs. Despite earlier announcements and a temporary pause extending operations through the end of 2025, declining staffing levels and customer demand have forced the company to move forward with the closure. Local officials, including Mayor Luke Feeney and Senator Bernie Moreno, have expressed concern and are actively engaging in efforts to support displaced workers through programs like Scioto Valley Forward and job fairs. Pixelle is working with state and local entities such as JobsOhio to assist employees with career transition services and is exploring potential buyers for the mill; if no sale occurs, the property will be transferred to a government entity for redevelopment. The shutdown poses significant economic challenges for the community, which has a long history tied to the paper mill industry. Efforts to prepare for the impact include balancing immediate employment assistance, potential sale negotiations, and long-term repurposing plans for the site.