As the news broke this week of Ford Motor Company’s decision to end operations at BlueOval SK and replace it with a battery energy storage systems operation, area officials offered their reactions.
“With impending layoffs of an announced 1,600 co-workers, Judge Taul has announced his main focus is to do whatever is possible to help the impacted citizens have the support and resources they need to find new jobs,” said Hardin County Government Communications Officer Brian Walker. “The county is in communication with Ford, state officials, and other stakeholders as additional details become available.”
Walker said Judge/Executive Keith Taul is optimistic about Ford’s decision to maintain a presence in Glendale along with investments in other facilities.
“Their long-standing presence in Louisville and the announced retooling of that factory has historically shown their dedication to remain in the Commonwealth,” Walker said. “We’re here to support long-term job opportunities, economic stability, and responsible growth that will serve Hardin County and surrounding areas and its residents now and in the future.”
Kentucky Tenth District State Senator Matt Deneen said in a statement: “As Ford moves through an organizational and ownership transition, there will be short-term challenges associated with that process. However, Ford’s $2 billion commitment to the Glendale facilities, coupled with its expansion of energy-storage battery production to serve a broad range of industrial and utility needs, underscores the company’s long-term commitment to this community. The company’s presence and employment in the region will continue as planned.”
Elizabethtown/Hardin County Industrial Foundation President and COO Andy Games said in a release: “While the Glendale site will transition from the original joint venture structure, it remains clear that this project has already delivered significant investment and economic impact to our community and will continue to deliver in the future.”
The Lincoln Trail Area Development District said their Rapid Response team, which is part of the Kentucky Career Center, is prepared to assist BlueOval SK employees facing layoffs.
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