During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding pollution and noise emissions from a facility operated by the Markley Group. Community members expressed frustration over the installation of large noise-blocking structures that were reportedly added without prior approval from the planning board. These structures, which were introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, are believed to contribute to noise levels reaching 55 decibels at property lines, raising alarms about their impact on local residents.
One speaker highlighted that the facility's cooling systems, which are essential due to rising temperatures linked to climate change, have not been adequately addressed in previous planning discussions. The speaker pointed out that the noise from these systems was never included in the original plans submitted to the board, suggesting a lack of transparency from the Markley Group.
Additionally, concerns were voiced about new mobile fans that were brought in without notification to local authorities, further complicating the situation. The speaker demanded clarification on the purpose of these fans and the permanent pipes connected to the facility, questioning the rationale behind their installation without proper oversight.
The meeting also revisited discussions from 2015 regarding air pollution and emissions from the facility, indicating that these issues have persisted over the years without resolution. Community members are now calling for more stringent oversight and accountability from the Markley Group to address both noise and air quality concerns effectively.