I want to provide an informational update regarding the situation at the FRAM Greenville facility, which is currently slated to close on April 30. This past fall, we first became aware of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing by First Brands Group, and the subject has been on our administrative agenda and a topic of discussion ever since. This has all led to an indictment which alleges that Patrick and Edward James perpetuated a yearslong fraud at First Brands Group, LLC, eventually bankrupting this global automotive company in September 2025.
Peter Andrew Brumberg has pleaded guilty for his role in the scheme as well, and is cooperating with the government . At the time of bankruptcy, First Brands Group, a company that reported approximately $5 billion in net annual sales worldwide, declared just $12 million in cash in its corporate bank accounts, but over $9 BILLION in liabilities. As a consequence of the defendants’ fraudulent schemes, First Brands’ lenders and creditors now face billions in losses. These alleged multi-billion-dollar fraud charges against these top executives have created quite a complex situation locally, having a most dire effect on 302 FRAM employees here in Greenville, who now face unemployment. Along with the loss of these jobs comes a consequential hit to the City of Greenville. The prospect of losing that many employees in our local workforce means they’ll no longer be paying local income tax. That will have quite a significant effect on our general operating fund.
We remain hopeful, as the plant isn’t closed yet and, again, remains open until April 30. U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno has pledged his help and support as well, stating that these “greedy scumbags” need to be held fully accountable for their actions, and will do all he can in saving these jobs, totaling over 1200 in the state of Ohio. There’s still time on the clock for a buyer to come forward, and we’ll remain ready to help in any manner possible should that happen. As a community, let’s pray for that to happen. Greed has no place in our city! Thank you.”
Mayor Jeff Whitaker
