LINDEN &8212; Community leaders and citizens continue to expressed concerns about the fate of the Linden Lumber Company, which will be discussed a public meeting today at 4 p.m. in the Marengo County Commission Chambers.

The meeting is regarding an announcement last week from Federal Land Bank of foreclosure of Linden Lumber Company including its properties in Linden and Thomasville, which could mean the loss of 425 jobs in Marengo County. The Commission called the meeting to consider, discuss, vote upon and take action on the adoption of a resolution to approve the use and grant public funds to loan $7 million to pay down current company debt.

Janet Langley has worked at Linden Lumber Company for 23 years and she, like 424 other employees is hoping there is a way to keep the company from closing.

Langley said not only is the company a benefit to Marengo County but to surrounding counties as well.

Kathy Aldridge, a resident of Myrtlewood who works in Linden, said the close could affect every business in the city.

Another point raised by Aldridge was the issue of industrial development in the area.

Area leaders are also bracing to see the outcome of tomorrow&8217;s meeting, which could have an answer to the fate of LLC.

Linden City Councilman William Curry said he hopes the company stays open so the community doesn&8217;t lose the jobs.

When asked about the County Commission&8217;s role in the fate of Linden Lumber Company, Curry said, &8220;I think some people are for it, some are against and some feel like they don&8217;t have adequate information to make a decision.&8221;

Demopolis Mayor Cecil P. Williamson said, &8220;Just like everyone else, I&8217;d hate for us to lose the jobs and see the ripple effect it has on the community.&8221;

When asked about her take on the Commission&8217;s role in the potential foreclosure of LLC, Williamson said, &8220;I&8217;m going to count on the Commission to do due diligence and make the right decision.&8221;