Resolute Forest Products is cutting 222 jobs at its Calhoun, Tenn., plant as it shuts down newsprint production operations and puts more focus on making tissue.
The job cuts will leave the McMinn County facility with about 491 people, said company spokeswoman Debbie Johnston.
Earlier this year, the company announced it was shifting from paper to tissue production at what is one of America’s biggest pulp mills to help ensure the future of the facility, which had made newsprint since 1954.
“The goal is to turn the facility around so it can become profitable and a target for future capital investment,” Johnston said.
John Gentry, McMinn County’s mayor, said the decision is “a hit to the region.” Because of the plant’s close proximity near the Bradley County line, both counties will share the job losses, he said.