Proposed Northern Iowa Hog Plant to Employ 2,000

MASON CITY, Iowa (AP) — Officials say Mason City is on its way to getting a hog-processing operation that's expected to employ up to 2,000 workers in its first two years.

A company intends to build the hog-processing facility on the south side of the city and to hire 900 to 2,000 workers between 18 months and two years.

Mayor Eric Bookmeyer says the 600,000 square-foot facility is a $245 million project.

Chad Schreck, head of the North Iowa Corridor Economic Development Corp., says the company intends to build an environmentally friendly, modern building that will enhance the neighborhood. He says it'll have a $44 million payroll.

Officials declined to name the out-of-state company, but more information is expected later this month as details solidify.