Plans uncertain for RG Steel rescue - 21 News Now, More Local News for Youngstown, Ohio -

WARREN, Ohio - More than a thousand laid off RG Steel workers are living in limbo, waiting to find out if they'll ever be called back to work.

A new owner mothballed the plant, which he bought in a bankruptcy auction, and time to find a buyer to put the plant back online is running short.

"We're looking at less than four months right now," said Warren City Councilman Al Novak.

Novak was referencing the remaining months allotted in a bankruptcy court agreement to find someone to run the mill.

At Wednesday's regular meeting, Trumbull County Commissioner Frank Fuda shared his concerns. It's been almost a month since they've heard from RG Steel owner Charles Betters.

"If there's no communication between Mr. Betters and the people who are considering all of that, there's no progress being made," Fuda said.

Fuda says during his last meeting with Betters there was no mention of an auction of items inside the plant.

Still, commissioners say they're trying to find solutions for making the mill attractive to potential investors. Possible tax abatements and a joint economic development agreement are just some of the options.

Novak says the situation needs solving soon. "I am very afraid. Once this auction came up and those items, you know that are being auctioned off. I'm very concerned that's been scheduled," Novak said.

Commissioners, city leaders and lawmakers are expected to meet next week to discuss ways they can help save the business before it's too late.