Residents React To FCI Closing

MOUNT UNION, HUNTINGDON COUNTY - WTAJ talked to residents in Mount Union, and found that FCI closing doesn't just affect the workers.

We did speak to a couple people who work at FCI but they wouldn't go on camera, they say their HR Department's instructed them not to speak to reporters. However, many in Mt Union say you don't have to work at FCI to feel heartbroken for those that are going to lose their jobs.

Rodney Jackson's lived in Mount Union for years. He says when he heard about FCI closing, he was upset, but not shocked.

"I think is that Mount Union is already in a bad state as far as economy and everything, and I think its just going to get worse."

After a portion of the plant pulled out of the area last month, costs for the company soared, forcing FCI to shut its doors some time next year.

Ann Mckeehan worked there for four years. She says many of her co-workers are still there. Now, their careers are in limbo.

"A lot of people are still working there that, I don't know what's going to happen, I just I felt so bad for them. It's going to be tight for them, money's going to be tight for them."

Ricky Snyder knows a few guys at FCI; he says the worst part of the whole thing? The timing.

"I just really feel bad for the people, for their families, especially at this time of year."

Jackson agrees that the timing couldn't' have been worse.

"...Its a shame, it's bad anytime a company shut down around the area, but when it's around the holidays it just makes it that much worse."

FCI says that some of the employees that they let go will get new opportunities at a new location within the company. However others, will simply be left without a paycheck.