Sawmill expected to make positive impact to Lumberton, Lamar Co.
Sawmill expected to make positive impact to Lumberton, Lamar Co. By Carly Blake | December 17, 2020 at 6:00 PM CST - Updated December 17 at 10:13 PM
LUMBERTON, Miss. (WDAM) - Idaho Forest Group is set to build a multimillion-dollar sawmill in the city of Lumberton, creating a huge economic boost for the city.
“It’s going to be a big deal,” said Warren Byrd, Lamar County Board President. “Talking about $120 million investment, 135 jobs and an average salary benefit of $55,000 dollars. It’s a game-changer for Lumberton.”
This sawmill will not only positively impact the city and county’s tax revenue, but it will also contribute to the various industries throughout the county.
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Idaho-based lumber producer Idaho Forest Group (IFG) has secured initial approval for its plans to build Lumbertonâs first new sawmill since the 1920s, clearing the way for the companyâs expansion into the South.
The project is a $120 million corporate investment and will create up to 135 jobs. Operations are scheduled to commence by mid-2022.Â
The Lamar County Board of Supervisors approved a proposal to transfer 174 acres of county land to IFG.
The Mississippi Development Authority is providing a $3 million grant for site preparation rail. It will make a $1.25 million loan to Lamar County, if needed, for public infrastructure.
âWe are pleased to have the confidence of the Lamar County leadership,â said Marc Brinkmeyer, owner and chief executive of IFG.