(KMZA)--Sabetha-based Berwick Oil Company has announced that the proposed merger with Seneca-based Ag Partners Cooperative was not approved.  

That word came Monday in a release from the Board of Directors of Berwick Oil.  

Members of Berwick Oil voted on the proposed merger during a special meeting held on November 19th.  Approval required a two-thirds majority vote.  The final results were 52 percent in favor of the merger and 48 percent against, which did not meet the supermajority threshold required for passage.  

Berwick Oil Board Chair Nick Aberle said "while the outcome is not what we had hoped for, we will continue to look for opportunities to strengthen our cooperative's future and enhance the value we deliver to our members."  

Aberle thanked all members who participated in the process, whether by attending informational meetings, submitting ballots or engaging in discussions.  

Both Berwick Oil Company and Ag Partners Cooperative will continue business operations as normal.   
The release says the staff and boards of both organizations remain committed to exploring options that support long-term stability and value for their cooperatives and members.