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PerryNext Mission Statement: PerryNext represents the collective effort of city, county and state officials, local businesses and community leaders dedicated to addressing immediate concerns of those affected by the plant closure. PerryNext is the trusted resource for important information regarding the community, business attraction efforts, media responses, workforce resources and social issues. This coalition will also work on laying the groundwork for long-term economic recovery and revitalization.
Vince Sturm - Owner/President Wealth Management Advisor at Generations Wealth Advisors, discusses options that those affected by the Tyson closure and others who may need in regard to their retirement savings.
PerryNext Panel Discussion
A panel discussion hosted by the PerryNext coalition will take place at La Poste (1219 Warford St, Perry, IA 50220) in downtown Perry on Wednesday, May 22nd starting at 5:30pm. Topics will include pork industry updates, PerryNext response to the announcement, workforce issues, community resources, and attraction and marketing efforts by the state.
The panel will be moderated by Dr. Tom Burkgren, Perry leader and subject matter expert in agricultural economics and community development.
The community is encouraged to attend this informative panel discussion to learn about efforts addressing the upcoming closure of the Perry Tyson plant.
Those planning on attending the Panel Discussion, we ask that you pre-register (the event is free and pre-registration does not cost either), so we can have a rough idea of the number of attendees.
Why is the Tyson pork processing facility closing? The decision to close the facility was made by Tyson to optimize the efficiency of operations to better serve their customers. When will the Tyson pork processing facility officially close? In the announcement from Tyson, they plan to shut down the facility on June 28,2024. Communication is ongoing with Tyson leadership regarding the anticipated close date. How many employees will be affected by the Tyson closure? As of March 11, 2024, Tyson employed approximately 1,276 individuals. Through incentives from Tyson, numerous employees are continuing to work at the facility until the projected close date of June 28, 2024. What if Tyson has a large number of employees leave before June 28, 2024, will the plant remain open? Tyson submitted a 60-day notice to Iowa Workforce Development on March 11, 2024. They are legally required to employ their staff until Friday, May 10, 2024. What options are available for the impacted employees? Tyson is encouraging employees to apply for other open roles within the company. Additional resources and support are being provided by state and local officials to assist Tyson employees seeking a new position outside of the company. Please scroll down on this page for a list of Employment Resources. How will the closure affect local pork producers?Approximately 100 pork producers will need to find alternative sources to harvest their animals, as the Perry plant processes 9,000 hogs each day. Tyson has indicated that hogs will be rerouted to Storm Lake and/or Des Moines facilities for the time being. How will the Tyson closure affect the local economy?A ripple effect in the local and state economy is anticipated by research and economic professionals. PerryNext is working to mitigate the economic damage created by theTyson closure. As more information is shared by Tyson, PerryNext will be able to better determine next steps in planning for economic recovery. Is there any assistance for businesses affected by the closure? Local businesses can seek assistance through state and local economic development programs. Please reach out to Greater Dallas County Development Alliance for business resources. What will happen to the Tyson facility after it closes? The future use of the facility is currently under discussion. Details about when it will reopen and who will purchase the building are still unknown. Are there plans to sell or repurpose the building?Tyson has been working with local, regional and state economic developers to discuss interest in the building and best use of the space. If you are interested in information about the building, please contact Greater Dallas County Development Alliance. How will the Tyson closure impact environmental sustainability efforts?Tyson has indicated itscommitment to environmental sustainability and will work to minimize any negative impacts from the closure. The City of Perry anticipates infrastructure disruptions and is working with industry professionals to create a plan to preserve and conserve resources. What support is available for the community during this transition? Community support services, including counseling and job placement assistance, are being provided to those affected. For more information on these resources and who to contact, please scroll down to the Counseling and Support Resources section of this page. How can the public stay informed about developments related to the Tyson closure? Updates have been provided through local news outlets and Tyson’s official communication channels.PerryNext will also be updating this page as well as provide update through the PerryNext Facebook page as new information is received. How will this closure affect the price and supply of pork products? The issue is being monitored by pork industry experts to determine how the price and supply of pork will be affected. Are there any health and safety concerns for the community following the closure? Health and safety regulations will continue to be enforced to ensure community well-being. If you notice any safety and health concerns, please notify the Cit of Pery. If the safety or health concern is an emergency, please dial 911. Will there be any environmental impacts due to the closure? Tyson’s pork production facility handles animal biproducts. The closure is expected to impact waste management and recycling processes and the City is working with professionals to understand the long term impact. I am an employer, how do I reach out to prospective employees who have been affected by the closure? In a joint effort by the City of Perry, Perry Economic Development, Perry Chamber of Commerce, and DMACC VanKirk Career Academy to provide support and assistance to current employees of the Perry Tyson plant, a series of Job Fairs will be planned throughout the spring. In an attempt to streamline communications when these opportunities are finalized - and also to have on hand as a resource for reference - this survey serves as the primary intake for area employers interested in participating in upcoming job fairs and/or included on a list of area businesses with open positions: Perry Job Fair Employer Survey What translation services are available to non-English speaking employees impacted by the Tyson plant closure? Tyson is partnering with Iowa Workforce Development to offer translation services for the 19 languages spoken at the Tyson Perry facility. PerryNext is aware of the languages that require translation services and is working with multiple translation service providers to accommodate.
Connect to long-term mental health support and care coordination services. Financial assistance is available for those without insurance or with limited insurance coverage.
NEW: Medicaid Transportation Benefits can now be used to access crisis counseling opportunities in Perry!
Simply call your MCO at the numbers below and a representative will assist you in scheduling the ride.
Iowa Total Care: 1-883-404-1061
Molina Healthcare: 844-236-0894
Amerigroup/Wellpoint: 833-731-2140
A driver will be dispatched as quickly as possible for same-day needs. Members under 16 will need to submit a Child Release Request (Consent and Release of Liability form completed by their parent/guardian to travel unaccompanied). Members under 12 cannot ride without escort due to state requirements.
MEAL ASSISTANCE
Perry Public Library Food Recovery Program | 1101 Willis Avenue | (515)465-3569 | collection of donated food items delivered to fridge and shelves in the Library atrium, free for pick-up by any/all. Availability of items/quantity varies daily.
Stocked on Monday/Wednesday/Friday by 10am from local stores, as available
Stocked on select Thursdays from Supply Hive Food Rescue, as available (www.thesupplyhivedsm.org)
Regular Library Hours:
Monday - Thursday 10am-8pm
Friday 10am-6pm
Saturday 10am-5pm
Sunday CLOSED
Perry Food Pantry | 3112 Willis Avenue | (515)570-2975 | some restrictions may apply
Tuesdays 10am-12:30pm
Thursdays 3pm - 6pm
Mobile Food Pantry
Crossroads Church | 2810 1st Street
Last Saturday of every other month (odd months)
Next: Saturday, January 27th, 8:30a-10:30am (while supplies last)
Dallas County Hospital - North Parking Lot | 610 10th Street
Third Wednesday of every other month (even months)
Next: Wednesday, February 21st, 3pm until supplies last (parking lot opens at 2pm)
Community Meals
Perry Public Library Food Recovery Program | 1101 Willis Avenue | (515)465-3569 | collection of donated food items delivered to fridge and shelves in the Library atrium, free for pick-up by any/all. Availability of items/quantity varies daily.
Stocked on Monday/Wednesday/Friday by 10am from local stores, as available
Stocked on select Thursdays from Supply Hive Food Rescue, as available (www.thesupplyhivedsm.org)
Regular Library Hours:
Monday - Thursday 10am-8pm
Friday 10am-6pm
Saturday 10am-5pm
Sunday CLOSED
Perry Food Pantry | 3112 Willis Avenue | (515)570-2975 | some restrictions may apply
Tuesdays 10am-12:30pm
Thursdays 3pm - 6pm
Mobile Food Pantry
Crossroads Church | 2810 1st Street
Last Saturday of every other month (odd months)
Dallas County Hospital - North Parking Lot | 610 10th Street
Third Wednesday of every other month (even months)
LEGAL AID
Iowa Legal Aid
Helping eligible clients with civil, non-criminal legal problems:
Housing & Foreclosure
Consumer & Debt Collection
Public Benefits
Access to Education
Family Law
Perry Residents should contact: PerryCommunity@iowalaw.org or (319)329-8420
Partners should contact Lisa directly at LGavin@iowalaw.org
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT/RESOURCES
Dallas County Health Department Health Navigation Referrals
The Health Navigation program connects community members to area resources. Not sure where to turn or how to connect? Utilize the referral service:
Connect with community programs based on your needs and preferences
Salvation Army Mobile Services Center
The Salvation Army helps with rent, utilities, gas, personal care items, food, and other information. For more specific information about services offered, contact the Salvation Army at 515-282-3599.
Through the end of the year on the 3rd Monday of each month, 9:30am-3pm with a break for lunch, the Salvation Army Mobile Services will be at the Perry Public Library while the mobile center receives regular maintenance.
This is a free service and no registration is required. For more information, visit www.perry.lib.ia.us, call 515-465-3569, or visit the library.
Contact Information:
Sven Peterson - City Administrator, City of Perry Rachel Wacker - Executive Director, Greater Dallas County Development Alliance Chris Cohea - Marketing & Engagement Coordinator, City of Perry