GEORGETOWN, S.C. (From news reports) -- The International Paper Company in Georgetown will see its final production Dec. 17 and then the process of closing the plant will get under way, according to a company spokesperson.

Amy Simpson, an IP spokesperson, said on the morning of Dec. 17 "the final paper machine will complete production today and the mill team will then be working on cleaning and securing the mill and its equipment in the in the coming days."

The approximately 700 local IP workers had previously been told their final day would be January 5.

Some workers have been posting on social media this week photos and videos of different areas of the mill that have been performing final operations.

The number 3 machine is the only one still operating Dec. 17.

The company announced on October 31 it was closing the mill that has been a vital part of the local economy since it opened in 1937.

Since the announcement, job fairs have taken place to try to help those impacted find new employment.