Downsizing

[oldlib2]

Corporation downsizing can have a cruel impact on some small communities. I am retired and live in the small Northern California town of Lodi. The major industry, in the community is a plant owned by General Mills. Cheerios were primarily manufactured, giving the town a daily, pleasant, favorable, scent.

They are currently closing that plant, where about 500 people were employed. This is a farming community, primarily wine grapes at this time. Other then farm labor, which is imported, the only jobs are service related, and young people can see no future here.

The climate and soil in this area makes farming readily available, to grow a variety of crops, including citrus, nuts, watermelon, strawberries, cherries. and about anything else. Farm labor, unfortunately comes from Mexico and that wage scale would not support living here full time.

Corporations should consider the impact of downsizing, other then the bottom line. I am confident that the labor unions would have supported wage negotiations. This in contrast to full plant closure.

[sabrina 1]

1. That's a shame. I would love to see farming coming back to this country.

Where we are, most people are farmers and the food is so much better. We can buy eggs, meant, veggies, fruit (if you don't have your own) that is far superior to supermarket food. Plus you know what's in it.

One school up here is going to be providing local food to the students rather than the commercial food they generally get.

Good luck in your area, maybe someone will see the potential and try to revive the farming industry?

[Godhumor]

2. Buffalo's unofficial motto is "Our city smells like Cheerios"

We are a manufacturing hub for them, as well. I actually think the Lodi closing is leading to increased work here. It is a shame that what seems like a boon to one town comes at such a cost to another.