Tyson plant shutdown leaves Lexington residents searching for answers

LEXINGTON, Neb. — The impact of Tyson Foods’ decision to shut down its Lexington meat-processing plant is deepening as residents, workers and local service providers begin to absorb the scale of what the closure will mean for the community.

For decades the plant has been the economic backbone of the city — employing residents and supporting schools, small businesses, housing stability and more.

The closure is expected on or around January 20, with many families reassessing their futures in Lexington.

Andrea Martin, who grew up in Lexington and whose father has worked at Tyson for nearly 27 years, said the announcement upended her family’s plans.

“Hearing the news was a pretty big deal,” she said. “It’s saddening because my dad was getting close to retirement, and he’s just like, ‘Wow… all these years, and they’re going to do that to us.’ It’s really sad.”

Community members say conversations about relocation began almost immediately after the announcement.

Many are unsure whether they’ll be able to stay in Lexington if no new employer takes over the facility. At the Lexington Public Library, staff noticed the change right away.

“It’s been very shocking for everyone,” said librarian Mayra Rodriguez. “It’s going to affect the entire community, every business, every family. Even here, we’ve already seen a decrease in people coming in. Normally it’s busy, but today it’s quiet.”

Local service organizations are already preparing to assist families facing layoffs, housing insecurity, relocation decisions and job searches. Lutheran Family Services, which supports immigrants and refugees in the area, says the need is rising quickly.

“My family is impacted too,” said program manager Handy Marin Diaz. “We’re already talking about possibly relocating or even losing our house. When you walk outside, almost every person you see is affected by Tyson in one way or another.”

Despite the uncertainty, residents said the community is determined to stand together. Her organization is beginning outreach to employers and volunteers ahead of what she expects will be months of support work.

City leaders and nonprofit groups expect the coming weeks to be critical as families face difficult decisions about whether to stay or leave the only home many have ever known.