The announcement that Wabash National will permanently close its Little Falls manufacturing facility on April 17th, resulting in the layoff of 56 employees, is deeply concerning and difficult news for our community. My thoughts are with the workers and families who are now facing uncertainty and challenging decisions in the weeks and months ahead.
Job losses like these are never easy. They affect not only the individuals directly impacted, but also their families, local businesses, and the broader community. Many of these workers have dedicated years of hard work and skill to their jobs, and the loss of that stability can be overwhelming. I want those affected to know that their contributions matter, and that their concerns are understood.
These layoffs cause uncertainty, which can lead to unforeseen changes within families and for individuals. While this reality does not lessen the impact of the layoffs, it is important to remember that we have a strong community that supports each other through challenges like these.
For those impacted by the closure, help is available. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development offers support through the Dislocated Worker Program, which provides career counseling, job search assistance, training and retraining opportunities, and financial guidance for workers who have lost their jobs. CareerForce locations in our region can assist with resume preparation, interview skills, and connecting workers with open positions across central Minnesota and beyond. These resources exist to help people move forward and should not be overlooked.
Little Falls and Morrison County have a long history of resilience. Time and again, our community has come together to support neighbors during difficult transitions. While this closure is a setback, I remain hopeful. The workers affected by this decision bring valuable skills, experience, and a strong work ethic, and I believe those qualities will lead to new opportunities.
To the employees impacted by this announcement, please know that you are not alone. There are people, organizations, and resources ready to help during this transition, and I encourage anyone affected to reach out and take advantage of the support available.
Sincerely,
Ron Kresha
State Representative, District 10A
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