Residents of Whitley County expressed significant concerns during a recent government meeting regarding a proposed confined feeding operation (CFO) that could impact their community. The meeting featured testimonies from local residents, including Matthew Meyer and Brad Coble, who voiced worries about potential health risks, property value depreciation, and environmental impacts stemming from the operation.

Meyer, a father of three, emphasized the importance of maintaining the safety and integrity of the neighborhood, stating that many residents are contemplating moving if the operation proceeds. He highlighted previous issues with manure runoff affecting local waterways, which raised alarms about the potential for similar problems with the new facility.

Coble, who has lived in the area for over two decades, detailed his experiences with manure runoff contaminating Hurricane Creek, which runs through his property. He expressed skepticism about the proposed operation's ability to manage waste effectively, citing concerns about increased hog populations and the potential for further environmental degradation.

Mike Veenhuizen, representing the Wright family behind the proposed CFO, defended the project, asserting that it would comply with local and state regulations regarding distance from property lines and environmental safeguards. He noted that the facility would be situated well beyond the required setbacks from residences and water resources.

The meeting also addressed the lack of clarity regarding the size of the proposed buildings and the number of animals they would house, which residents felt was crucial information for assessing the project's impact. Local officials confirmed that the zoning code mandates a minimum distance of 660 feet from the facility to any off-site residences, with the nearest homes reportedly over 1,000 feet away.

As discussions continue, residents remain apprehensive about the implications of the CFO on their community's health, property values, and environmental quality. The commission is expected to deliberate further on the proposals, weighing the concerns of local residents against the potential agricultural benefits of the operation.