SPRINGFIELD — U.S. Sen. Sharrod Brown has sent a letter to Navistar Corporation Chairman Dan Ustian, urging him to find alternatives to suspending operations at the company’s Springfield facility.

Brown’s letter, sent Tuesday, was in response to a Workers Adjustment Retraining Notification (WARN) sent to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services in August, informing the agency that up to 370 workers could be laid off by Oct. 4.

The workers, members of UAW Local 402 and 658, are currently in contract talks with the company. The contract expires Oct. 1.

Springfield has been severely impacted by today’s economic challenges, Brown stated in his letter. “Such challenges are exceptionally difficult for communities that have relied heavily on the manufacturing and automotive industries.”

Noting the corporation’s military and commercial sales, as well as its development of new technology, Brown wrote, “I urge you to consider the Ohio workforce that has played a critical role in the company’s success.

“Navistar is a valued employer to Ohio and the nation. For many years, local, state and federal officials have worked diligently and invested in the company’s success.”

Ustian is in China and will likely not see the letter until he returns, Navistar spokesman Roy Wylie said.

Ustian travelled to China to sign a joint venture agreement with Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Co. Ltd., to develop advanced diesel commercial engines in that country, the company announced today. The agreement will produce products for the Chinese and other east Asian markets and will not effect U.S. operations, Wylie said.

Brown has spoken with Mayor Warren Copeland, area business leaders, and community leaders, press secretary Lauren Kalik said.

“Although he is not involved in the contract negotiations, he will continue to communicate with Navistar, the UAW, and community leaders to bolster the city’s economy,” Kalik said.

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0347 or kmori@coxohio.com.