Stunned workers say they're scrambling for new work while local residents fear a huge tax increase when Verso's Bucksport, Maine, paper mill closes.

The announcement that the mill will close Dec. 1 came as a surprise to workers, who said they had no idea such a move was being contemplated. Danny Carter, a 27-year employee, said workers and residents are "in awe."

The mill employs 570 people and accounts for more than 40 percent of Bucksport's budget.

The announcement came a week after Great Northern Paper filed for bankruptcy. Maine Gov. Paul LePage says he's going to do what he can to keep the Bucksport mill open or find a new buyer. He says the state is also going to try to help the displaced workers with job assistance.