Lonestar Forest Products Inc., a new industry that is set to open Oct. 1 in Fayette.
Lonestar owners are Russell and Stacey Collins. They attended the Tuesday, Aug. 12, council meeting to officially request the local abatements available to new industry in addition to giving the community details about the new business.
Lonestar is expected to have a $5.5 million capital investment and create approximately 60 jobs over a three-year period. Lonestar will first be a sawmill and lumber manufacturer, phasing in wood flooring that will be sold to Bruce Hardwood Flooring. Phase three of the business plan is to manufacture wood pallets.
Six people are currently working at the facility, located on a 27-acre tract off Hwy. 171 at the old pallet plant. Lonestar is expected to have 25 jobs by Oct. 1.
According to Mr. Collins, the pay range for employees will be $12 to $18 per hour, with an average pay of $15 per hour. Blue Cross/ Blue Shield Health Insurance will also be offered.
"I lived 40 years in Fayette, and I just moved back two years ago," Mr. Collins said. "I¹m glad we are able to give back to Fayette."
"I¹d just like to say that Deanna has been exceptional in helping us. Fayette has a wonderful asset in her," he continued. Mr. Collins was referring to Deanna Morgan, executive director with the West Alabama Economic Development Authority.
"I¹d also like to thank the mayor and council," Mr. Collins continued.
Fayette Mayor Ray Nelson also thanked Morgan,WAEDA and Pete Schaum with the Alabama Development Office for their help in locating the industry in Fayette.
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