Sold: Monroe Guide Plant

Nathan Williams has many friends who lost their jobs in 2006 when the guide plant in Monroe shut down. His friends were among 800 folks getting laid off when general motors closed its headlamp production plant. He said, “I knew a lot of people that worked over there originally and lost a lot of jobs." But now Nathan’s excited. Millionaire and businessman James Davison of Ruston bought the 425 thousand square foot Guide Plant. Area residents say they dont care how all this space is filled up...just as long as local folks have a chance for employment. Williams said, "As long as it brings jobs, thats good." The economic development coordinator for Monroe says the purchase is a great thing. Dr. Dwight Vines said, “The really important thing is that the plant will now be in the hands of James Davison. If hes not the top entrepreneur in north Louisiana I dont know who it would be…every project hes ever had that I know about has been successful. So he knows how to make things happen." Davison owns over 50 percent of Genesis Energy and Squire Creek Country Club and Golf Course in Choudrant among other things. Vines said, “Im very excited because I believe under his direction, things will be happening with the guide plant." Plans are still in works as to what exact business will take over the plant. Vines said, “Whatever jobs we get there will be good paying jobs, so it will be very helpful to the economy."