“It was a sad day to be the Mayor of Shenandoah,” said Mayor Richard Hunt.
Some were shocked by the news.
"It was upsetting, because of course I know several people who work there,” said Shenandoah resident Pam Oldham.
Others say they anticipated the layoff.
"I feel bad for the people, but when they had this layoff a few months ago I kind of suspected something" said Shenandoah resident Delores Pontious.
In December, 71 jobs were eliminated from Eaton Corporation in Shenandoah, Iowa. On Thursday, 250 more layoffs were announced.
“In no way is this a reflection on the people that work here in Shenandoah. These are excellent, excellent employees," said Eaton Corporation Manager of Global Business Communications, Jim Michels.
Eaton Corporation spokesman Jim Michels says the changing market forced Eaton to change its manufacturing strategy at its Shenandoah facility. By September, all transmission assembly gear and shaft machining operations will be eliminated.
“It's a tough, tough blow to our community,” said Gregg Connell with the Chamber and Industry Association.
The news has Shenandoah residents worried about their community’s future.
“I don't know if they're going to have to leave our community, that's a big scare,” said Oldham.
Local officials say they're doing everything to keep their community intact.
“We are going to try to pick up the slack and get them a job someplace else. We would like them to live here and commute if possible," said Mayor Hunt.
Gregg Connell with the Chamber and Industry Association says they've already begun working with Workforce Development, Eaton Corporation and other companies to place these 250 employees
"These people will not be forgotten. This is our top priority,” said Connell.
After the 250 layoffs, only about 85 positions will remain at Eaton’s Shenandoah facility.
