A proposed Watseka lumber yard was about ready to pull the plug on its plans to locate in the city after airing problems with efforts to ready its building and open for business.

RP Lumber's Jason Plummer told the City Council's Public Works committee (Tuesday night) the company has never had to jump thru so many hoops in prepping its plans to do business. Plummer was obviously disturbed and let the council hear about the many issues that slowed the company from opening in the former Kaper's Lumber yard business site, on Watseka's east side.

Plummer said a red flag Stop Work Order was recently put on the building.

Council members listened, asked questions and made it clear to Plummer and other RP Lumber reps they want to make it all work.

Aldermen John Allhands and Mike Marcier said it all sounds like "communication problems" between those officials handling building permits and approving work-orders.

Mayor Bob Harwood agreed, adding that the Stop Work order would be rescinded. The mayor said the two sides can certainly sit down and work together.

Those involved met with the city officials privately after the meeting. Progress was made to get the project back on track.

Plummer called Watseka "part of the heartland of America, this is the kind of place we want to be in and do business."

RP Lumber is located in several Midwest communities and has plans in the works to open facilities in several other towns. Plummer said the company should employ 8-10 people and generate up to $4 million in revenues.

94.1 WGFA