Talks continue in Maine on Georgia-Pacific mill's future

<p>After a meeting between Gov. John Baldacci and top administration officials and nine Georgia-Pacific Corp. officials who flew in to Augusta from their headquarters in Atlanta, Baldacci's office Wednesday issued a statement calling the talks on the future of the company's Old Town mill productive but inconclusive.</p><p>"I am pleased with the quality and progress of discussions today," Baldacci said. "Preserving jobs remains my primary focus. I am hopeful that we are approaching a solution that gives opportunities to the quality work force of the mill, their families, and the community around the Old Town mill."</p><p>Georgia-Pacific announced on March 15 that it would be shutting down its pulp and paper mill, which has employed 400 people.</p><p>The statement from Baldacci's office Wednesday offered supportive but general comments from a Georgia-Pacific spokesman.</p><p>"It was a good meeting and productive discussion," said GP's Robert Burns. "Each side has a better understanding of the issues and both parties are working toward a win-win solution. Gaps have narrowed, but there is still work to do."</p><p>The statement said communications between administration and company officials will continue in the near future.</p>