By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post
LEXINGTON, Neb. — Nebraska’s elected leaders are voicing deep concern after Tyson Foods announced it will wind down operations at its beef-processing plant in Lexington, a move that will impact thousands of workers and a region long anchored by the facility.
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer called the closure devastating for the community and the state’s beef industry.
“I am extremely disappointed by this news from Tyson today. As the single largest employer in Lexington, Tyson’s announcement will have a devastating impact on a truly wonderful community, the region, and our state,” Fischer said. She urged the company to prioritize families during the transition, adding, “As we head into the holiday season, I call on Tyson to do everything in its power to take care of the families affected by this short-sighted decision.”
Senator Pete Ricketts also expressed heartbreak over the timing and pledged to support affected families.
“I will do everything I can to support the Nebraskans who are impacted by the decision to close the Tyson Foods plant in Lexington. We must help them stay in our state and find work close to home,” Ricketts said. “This news is especially heartbreaking around the holidays. I ask for Nebraskans to keep the community of Lexington in their prayers.”
Congressman Adrian Smith described the announcement as a major loss for the region.
“Today’s announcement by Tyson Foods is a disappointing loss for Lexington, Dawson County, the region, and the cattle industry as a whole,” Smith said. “Nebraska’s hard-working cattle producers are innovative and highly efficient as they work to provide high quality beef for consumers. As the Lexington community and Nebraska agriculture respond to this announcement, I welcome input from producers and stand ready to assist as we all move forward.”
Governor Jim Pillen highlighted both the resilience of Nebraska’s cattle industry and the need to help displaced employees.
“Nebraska’s cattle industry is resilient and the envy of the world. And our workforce can outwork anybody,” Pillen said. He noted Tyson’s plans to boost capacity at other Nebraska facilities. “The state of Nebraska is ready to build for the future and do what it can do to support employees affected by this change.”
Tyson Foods said in its announcement that the Lexington shutdown is part of a broader restructuring effort meant to strengthen the long-term health of its beef business. The company said it will assist affected team members with transitions, including help applying for positions at other Tyson locations and relocation benefits.