Chromite Plant Site for a Grand Opening Celebration

2011-09-28

Sep. 27, 2011 - Guests from across the world converged at Oregon Resources Corporation's .
It's been years in the making, but we're told the outcome is worth it, as ORC CEO Philip Garratt tells KCBY, things are going really well, and they are producing an excellent product.
Although Garratt says, the team has had their challenges, most notably in reaching a lease agreement with Coos County for additional land, he thinks the plant is a step forward for the community.
"We see a revenue stream for the county that would be quite significant with respect to their current budget and future budgets," explains Garratt. "To be able to assist the county in doing the things they used to do and would normally expect to do from having the funding, which is not an easy thing these days."
ORC employs about 90 people and has been in the commissioning phase since June, meaning a lower than full-production scale operation.
Garratt says, he's pleased with the crew that's come together to make ORC a success.
"The thing that really means a lot to me, is the group of people we have here. We've been very, very fortunate in this area to have great people; talented, committed. Everybody's really pulled together to have this day be a success," replies Garratt.
Garratt asked Senator Joanne Verger to officially open the plant.
Among those in attendance included Mayor Shoji, City Manager Rodger Craddock and representatives from Menasha.