Local industries affected by automaker shutdowns

Some local industries are experiencing temporary layoffs due to a number of issues associated with COVID-19.

Carter Hendricks is the executive director of the South West Kentucky Economic Development Council and says supply chain disruption, lack of available childcare and additional government closures can all have impacts on the industrial community.

The major auto manufacturers have announced shutdowns of varying lengths and Hendricks says that has obviously had an impact on some plants, but others that produce other types of products are largely unaffected.

He wants those temporarily displaced workers to be aware of their immediate eligibility for unemployment benefits.

Hendricks says he’s heard from industries that are remaining open that they are taking the best steps they can to protect their workers on site.

He praised the local Chamber of Commerce for their efforts to help area businesses during this time, directing residents to their website. He also believes local governments and the Christian County Health Department has done a good job in their response