U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) announced his support today for the memorandum of understanding reached by Alcoa and the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), which provides the framework for a deal to keep Alcoa Intalco Works, Ferndale’s aluminum smelter facility, running for the next twenty years.

“Today’s agreement will keep family-wage jobs at the Ferndale smelter for the next twenty years and bring long-term stability for workers and their families,” said Larsen. “For Intalco workers, the last few years have been a roller coaster with many ups and downs. Work remains to be done, but today’s announcement means stable jobs and a smoother ride ahead."

“I am pleased that this proposal will take an important step forward to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and make the Ferndale smelter one of the most environmentally friendly in the country,” Larsen continued. “I want to thank BPA and Alcoa for negotiating in good faith to protect these jobs and keep Intalco open for the long term.”

Since he was first elected to Congress, Larsen has worked with Alcoa and led the effort by Washington state’s congressional delegation to keep family-wage jobs in Ferndale.

Plant Manager Mike Rousseau said, "Alcoa Intalco Works employees and families are very thankful for the support Congressman Larsen has provided. He, like so many in the local community, have been instrumental in keeping this plant alive."

The contract proposed today would take effect in 2011 and last through 2028. It stipulates that BPA will supply energy to power the smelter at a set rate. The Intalco smelter opened in Ferndale in 1966 and currently employs approximately 660 people in Northwest Washington.