Alexandra Olgin/KJZZ

Mesa Mayor John Giles.

The future of the 1.5 million square foot Apple plant is uncertain. GT Advanced Technologies, the company that makes glass for Apple products in Mesa, filed for bankruptcy.  

“I personally have talked with the folks at Apple and they have expressed their support for Mesa as a community and for that facility," said Mesa Mayor John Giles. "So that’s why I’m optimistic it’s not just a Pollyannaish approach I’ve been told by those that are involved that they are committed to the city.”

Giles' main concern is for the Mesa residents working at the plant. If the facility closes, 700 employees could lose their jobs by December.

He says if Apple doesn’t end up using the building, it’s ready for a new company to move in.