SIOUX CITY, Iowa – Smithfield Foods officials announced plans to donate its former John Morrell & Co. hog slaughtering facility, and the 23 acres of property it sits on, to the city. Smithfield shuttered the plant in April, 2010, reportedly due to its age.

The city issued a press release detailing plans to request $2 million in federal aid to raze the plant, which was built in 1957 before being purchased by Morrell in 1986.


In a statement from the city council, Councilman John Fitch said the property will be part of a future business development.

"By acquiring this land, the city will be able to offer a clean site for companies looking to relocate their businesses and jobs," Fitch said. "The acquistion of the Morrell site provides an opportunity to improve our business community and manage the city's image."