:38:00 AM Prospects for Ripon to hold on to the main cookie factory that’s been in Ripon for generations look grim. Since news broke two weeks ago that ConAgra planned to close the “west” cookie production facility, several local organizations have spoken with ConAgra officials. The news has been consistent: the factory will close by the end of the year, and 300 people will lose their jobs. “It is moving forward ... It has nothing to do with the community or the workforce; it’s a business decision,” said Steve Jenkins, president of Fond du Lac County Economic Development Corp. (FCEDC). “They’ve seen a market diminish for that product line, so I can totally understand that. I just hate to see 300 people laid off; our No. 1 goal is to make sure they’re taken care of.” Alex Gillis, representative for Workers United — whose Local 91 represents many employees at the Ripon plant — has been in talks with ConAgra, but has been given the same message from the company. “We are right now trying to figure out if there is any way to keep it open,” he said. “The company has been stating their position ... that it was a business decision, with a decline in the cookie industry ... We are trying to see if that is the right output from that information or if we can come up with a different conclusion.” The union remains in communication with ConAgra, and “as soon as we digest the information, we will meet with them,” Gillis said. Dan Hare, director of communication and external relations for ConAgra, confirmed with the Commonwealth Monday evening that the company’s plans remain firm. “The information we shared with employees two weeks ago is still accurate,” he said, explaining that while ConAgra is speaking with Local 91, it’s not a discussion about possibly keeping the plant. “We have had productive discussions with the unions representing Ripon West employees and we look forward to having open communication with employees once the details are finalized