Former Sartell Paper Mill Smokestack Removed

SARTELL (AP) — A familiar blue smokestack that could be seen for miles is gone from the landscape in Sartell.

AIM Development took down the former Verso paper mill smokestack Thursday. The mill was destroyed after a 2012 explosion and fire. One person was killed and four were injured.

The site is being demolished and prepared for redevelopment.

Jeff McGlin of AIM Development says the south power plant is the last major structure that needs to be taken down and that should be done by mid-January. Crews will continue removing debris and crushing concrete through the winter.

McGlin says in February, a site assessment and soil and water tests will be done with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Demolition and site leveling should be done by May.