V&M Star property negotiations still under way

YOUNGSTOWN — More negotiations are needed before V&M Star Steel can finalize a deal to purchase railroad property it needs for a proposed $970 million expansion, city officials say.

Discussions with Norfolk Southern about the relocation of a railroad line that runs through the site of V&M’s potential expansion are “moving forward,” said Youngstown Mayor Jay Williams.

City Finance Director David Bozanich said on Feb. 12 that he expected the issue to be resolved in about 10 days.

Today, he wouldn’t give a timetable on resolving the issue.

“We’re still working away at it,” Bozanich aid. “I can’t say too much because of the sensitivity of the negotiations.”

But the mayor expects the deal to be finalized in less than two weeks.

“I believe it will come to a favorable resolution,” Williams said. “It’s progressing well. The rail discussions are moving forward.”

Attempts today by The Vindicator to contact V&M President Roger Lindgren were unsuccessful.

For the complete story, read Thursday’s Vindicator or Vindy.com