Lake Bluff residents voice concerns over EMCO chemical plant's zoning change

Lake Bluff residents expressed serious concerns regarding environmental safety during the Village Board meeting on June 23, 2025, particularly focusing on the implications of a recent M3 zoning change near their neighborhood. The meeting featured passionate testimonies from community members worried about the potential hazards posed by EMCO Chemical Packaging Company, which is now permitted to operate under the new zoning designation.

Jan Bartoli, a resident of the Sanctuary neighborhood, highlighted the risks associated with EMCO's operations, noting that the company handles a variety of hazardous materials, including carcinogenic chemicals. Bartoli urged the Village Board to take action to monitor the situation and collaborate with regulatory agencies to ensure community safety. "We all breathe the same air," Bartoli stated, emphasizing the need for transparency and oversight.

Matt Dollard, another resident, echoed these concerns, referencing EMCO's history of pollution in North Chicago and its potential impact on local drinking water sources. Dollard suggested that the Village consider funding legal support to challenge the zoning change and protect the community from possible environmental threats.

Connie McCabe shared a personal story, revealing her own health struggles linked to chemical exposure, which underscored the urgency of the residents' pleas for action. "We are looking for support... before there's a spill, before there's a fire," McCabe implored, highlighting the real-life consequences of environmental negligence.

The Village Board acknowledged the residents' concerns and the importance of ongoing dialogue regarding the chemical plant's operations. As the community grapples with these pressing issues, the board's response and future actions will be crucial in addressing the residents' fears and ensuring the safety of Lake Bluff's air and water quality.