Erie County's Director of Administration Gary Lee released a statement Thursday on the closure of the Erie Coke plant:

“It is very disappointing that Erie Coke Corp has not been able to come into compliance with wastewater rules at the plant to remain in operation in Erie County. “We will continue to support the City of Erie and assist as necessary while the Department of Labor and Industry’s Rapid Response team works to help the Erie Coke employees find new jobs as quickly as possible. “The talented Erie County workers who dedicated their skills and industry strengths to the plant should remain confident that their community leaders are doing everything they can to advocate for them during this difficult time. “It is important that we come together as one voice, as one community, this holiday season to accommodate our friends and families. Erie County has taken another hit today, but we must keep the faith that new beginnings are around the corner for this vibrant county.”

As Erie News Now previously reported, the plant closed early Monday citing difficulties with meeting deadlines imposed by the City of Erie.