Murray Hill Residents Raise Alarm Over Suspected Chemical Plant Stench at Town Hall Meeting
Residents of Murray Hill convened on Thursday evening to express their frustration over an unpleasant smell they suspect originates from a nearby chemical facility. They used this gathering as an opportunity to discuss the impending permit renewal for the plant with representatives from the Department of Environmental Protection.
Residents tired of an ongoing smell they suspect originates from International Flavors and Fragrances Inc. voiced their concerns in front of authorities.
“The smell is incredibly strong,” stated Cindy Mathieson, a resident of Murray Hill. “Picture all your home cleaning products being combined in one bucket and then intensify that scent tenfold.”
Mathieson, who has resided in Murray Hill for half a decade, states that the odor has been persistent and is impacting her well-being.
“I woke up in the mornings with badly congested sinuses and migraine headaches due to the smell that had accumulated overnight,” stated Mathieson.
>> WATCH ACTION NEWS JAXSTREAM <<
[DOWNLOAD:
Download the Free Action News Jax app for real-time updates when news happens.
]
For years, Action News Jax has covered numerous complaints which eventually resulted in legal actions. This led to an investigation known as the “stink study,” ultimately forcing IFF into a compliance agreement with the city aimed at eliminating the odor problem.
But as recently as January, we reported that neighbors could still smell it… and said private investigators were trying to
persuade neighbors to agree on signing papers
saying there was no bad smell.
In a statement to Action News Jax about Thursday’s meeting, IFF wrote in part:
“IFF continues to fully comply with our Title V air permit…I am looking forward to working continuously with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection during the permit renewal process.”
“I don’t wish for individuals to lose their employment. I also don’t desire for the facility to shut down. My aim is for IFF to improve their performance,” stated Mathieson.
In addition to the DEP’s town hall, neighbors have until May 22nd to submit their comments and concerns to the agency.
[SIGN UP:
Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter
]