Residents of Blendon Township are voicing strong concerns over a proposed lithium battery storage facility, which has sparked significant public outcry in recent weeks. During the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners meeting on August 26, 2025, a commissioner highlighted the growing unease among constituents regarding the project, which has been in the planning stages for over a year but only recently gained public attention.

The facility, proposed by Key Capture, a company with ties to South Korea, has raised alarms due to its potential risks to public safety and environmental health. Local residents packed a recent township meeting to express their worries, particularly about the dangers associated with lithium battery fires, which are notoriously difficult to extinguish. Concerns were also raised about the possibility of heavy metals contaminating the soil and aquifer in the event of a fire, as well as air quality issues that could arise from toxic smoke.

Adding to the controversy, it was revealed that the landowner of the proposed site is also a member of the Blendon Township Planning Commission, which has led to accusations of conflicts of interest. This has further fueled public dissatisfaction, as residents fear that their safety and well-being are being compromised for the sake of development.

The commissioner emphasized the importance of transparency and community engagement in the decision-making process, urging local officials to address the public's concerns seriously. With schools and homes located nearby, the implications of this project extend beyond just the immediate area, affecting the broader community.

As discussions continue, residents are encouraged to stay informed and involved in the ongoing dialogue surrounding the battery farm proposal, as its potential impact on public safety and environmental health remains a pressing issue for Ottawa County.