CANTON, N.C. (WLOS) – Creative budgeting will be required as the closure of the Pactiv Evergreen paper mill in Canton created a $3 million hole in the town’s budget. But, Mayor Zeb Smathers said basic, required services will be maintained with the police, fire department, street crews, and recreation, adding, town staff is finding areas to streamline hundreds of thousands in the new budget. For example, instead of a cleaning service, town employees will clean their own offices. And there will be no new Christmas decorations. He said the new budget is focused on needs, not wants, adding, a bigger hit to the town financially will come in next year’s budget. The mayor said he’ll continue discussions with the General Assembly and the Governor’s Office for any emergency funding that may come Canton’s way.
MEANWHILE…
The community is expected to turn out for the final two shifts at Pactiv Evergreen Thursday at the plant.
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