Westerman lumber to close

Wade Young, Montgomery Messenger

The downturn in the economic and construction climates are forcing one of Montgomery's historic businesses to close its doors.

H.E. Westerman Lumber Co., announced to its employees Thursday, March 25, that it will be closing within 60 days. The company has three retail locations in Montgomery, Lonsdale and Belle Plaine, and all will close.

According to Greg Westerman, vice president and secretary for Westerman Lumber Co., there have not been enough sales to maintain the business operation. He gave some percentages that show how the building and retail business have dropped in recent years.

Retail sales were less than 50 percent of what they were three years ago