October 3, 2024
By: Katherine Trowbridge
Connell’s Lamb Weston opened its doors to former employees on Thursday, October 3, allowing them to get personal belongings and speak with representatives of the company regarding outsourcing and job opportunities.
This follows the news that came, rather abruptly, on Tuesday, October 1 that the plant had closed permanently at the end of day, September 30.
Employees stated that they didn’t think it was this important when they had received the text notice about the meeting. Some, who wish to remain anonymous, said it seemed "optional".
The text stated, “Important All-Employee Meeting today, Oct 1 @ 1pm, NOT mandatory, please meet in front of the plant entrance for an important company update.”
The text came in just after 7 am on Tuesday, and employees were told just after 1 pm that they no longer had a job. Many, especially those who have worked for Lamb Weston their entire careers, felt blindsided.
The company is already in the process of decommissioning the facility.
Former Lamb Weston employees have expressed that while they are still processing this news, they are eagerly seeking employment.
If you are a business within the Columbia Basin who is hiring, please reach out to us so that we can bridge the gap between your hiring needs and those who are seeking employment (franklincountygraphic@gmail.com).
A career fair is being planned by the Greater Connell Area Chamber of Commerce for October 25 at the Connell Community Center to assist those affected from 10am-2pm.
Chamber President Bevon Davis stated, "The fair is for the benefit of former Lamb Weston employees as we are trying to retain as many residents as possible."
If you are hiring within reasonable commuting distance from Connell, WA, please register or share if you know of opportunities elsewhere - connellwa.com/jobs
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