Neighbors push back as Markley seeks to double on‑site diesel capacity; council sets public hearing

Lowell City Council members agreed to schedule a public hearing on Oct. 21 after the environmental and flood issues subcommittee referred a petition from Markley Law Offices to add diesel storage and generator capacity at its Dutton Street facility.

The subcommittee report said Markley asked to add 96,700 gallons of diesel fuel to existing on‑site storage, bringing total permitted diesel from 71,000 gallons to 167,700 gallons. Subcommittee members and residents said they oppose the increase and asked for more mitigation and clearer data on energy use and stormwater handling.

Why it matters: Neighbors said the facility sits in a dense area and raised health, noise and stormwater concerns. City staff and subcommittee members described outstanding technical and permitting issues — including a rejected tie‑in proposal from Markley to the city wastewater/stormwater system — that the council should weigh before action on the fuel permit.

The Markl…