Sen. Griffo’s statement concerning ALCOA's Nov. 3 announcement in Massena

State Senator Joseph Griffo released the following statement on Nov. 3 in response to that day's announcement by Alcoa concerning its smelting and refining capacity in Massena:

I am disappointed by today’s news regarding the future of Alcoa, especially the significant impact it will have on the company’s hardworking and dedicated employees, their families and the North Country region.

I have previously spoken with representatives of the company and their employees about the concerns they have faced, and the state has provided Alcoa economic incentives in the past – particularly low-cost energy – to try to help them during these challenging times.

Moving forward, we will do our best to support and assist Alcoa’s employees, who have proven to be an outstanding workforce on behalf of the company and their communities. I also want to ensure that any unused power already allocated by the state to the Massena West plant will remain available to benefit the people of Massena and its surrounding area, instead of being redirected to another region.

While we’re dismayed by Alcoa’s decision, we are equally determined and firm in our resolve to work hard and collectively as a team to reinvigorate the North Country economy.

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