West Central Reporter

Illinois state Rep. Norine Hammond (R-Macomb) is pressuring Gov. J.B. Pritzker for assurances in the wake of a Havana power plant being forced to close its doors by the end of year.

“I’m deeply disappointed in the decision to force the closure of the Havana coal plant,” Hammond said in a press release. “This was a political decision that was entirely avoidable. While I intend to do everything possible to support the workers and communities impacted, I also call on Governor Pritzker’s Administration to release a plan to ensure the job security of the plant employees and local property tax base in Mason County.”

The Journal-Courier reports about 75 workers from Havana are expected to lose their jobs with the intended closure of Vistra Energy’s four coal-fired power plants in Illinois by the end of the year.

The Havana plant has been operating for more than four decades and produces about 434 MW of power. With the plant being a major contributor to the areas tax base, its closure is expected to have a trickle-down effect that could cost area schools and local governments to be forced to curtail their services.

“Without action to mitigate the impact, this will be a heavy blow to plant workers and their families, local schools, and the area economy,” Hammond said. “With the plant’s closure imminently approaching, I will work with state agencies, community leaders, and Vistra Energy to ensure a smooth transition for the employees and continuity of services from local units of government.”