By Marianne Lincoln

In 1997-98, I had the privilege of working at Simpson Tacoma Kraft.  I was a statistician for the paper mill and worked directly for the manager of the paper plant Tim Jaeger. While there, I saw an amazing amount of caring, generosity and cooperation toward and with the employees of the mill and the community at large through United Way contributions.  In meetings, the general manager, Don Johnson showed a tremendous interest in correcting the ecological impacts of the plant in for the community. He battled head on with the “aroma of Tacoma” and worked to lessen the impact to the shorelines and Commencement Bay.

This company deserves credit for good paying jobs and a healthy approach to the greater good. I hope that  then new owner will show at least an equal concern for the highly visible location they occupy in the tide flats and the community.  We cannot afford anything less.

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Executive McCarthy praises Simpson Tacoma Kraft’s role in the community

Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy issued the following statement following today’s announcement of the sale of the Simpson Tacoma Kraft paper mill:

“Simpson Tacoma Kraft has earned a long-standing reputation as a high-wage employer and corporate leader, and I’m glad that Simpson Lumber Company will continue to be a part of the community. RockTenn Co.’s commitment to invest $60 million in the Tideflats paper mill is a sign that Simpson has found the right buyer.”