By Jeff Skrzypek

ALBANY, Ore. -- Albany residents are worried about what will happen to the International Paper Mill building in Millersburg after it shuts down in December. This, after the company announced Thursday that three paper mills will be closing by the end of the year.

Many people in the area are concerned that the image of an empty building puts a black mark on the community. Officials with International Paper say they aren't exactly sure what will become of the Albany Mill. They say right now, they don't have any plans of selling or using the facility immedietley after it closes.

Meanwhile, residents also say they're worried how the closure will affect all aspects of the economy in Albany. With less jobs, that means there will be less money to be spent in town. Because the paper mill had the highest taxes in Linn County, people say all aspects of public services will be affected as well.

Officials say the current tax rate will eventually be reassessed, dropping revenue dramatically for the city.