Mount Olive board urges continued legal, public outreach over odor from nearby private sewage facility

The Mount Olive Township School District board on Jan. 8 discussed ongoing odors and community complaints tied to a nearby private sewage facility and pledged continued legal and public outreach to support the township's efforts.

Board members referenced a letter from the mayor describing nuisance conditions near Aldersgate and said district counsel and administration have previously pursued legal options, written letters and contacted federal and state regulators. One board member asked whether the district could “piggyback” on the township’s action to amplify pressure on the facility owner; administrators said they would add letters and pursue public avenues if appropriate.

Superintendent (as reported at the meeting) said the district had engaged a firm with environmental-law expertise and documented outreach to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. A representative of the board’s counsel stated that there is pending private litigation by the township and that the firm has followed up with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

Board members described the odor as disruptive to students and staff and said it has a negative effect on concentration in classrooms. Several members urged broader community letter-writing to the EPA to supplement the township’s efforts. Board discussion emphasized legal limits — administrators said the facility is private, which constrains direct district remedies — but supported continued coordination with municipal officials and counsel.

The discussion concluded with a commitment to continue outreach and to follow up with township counsel and appropriate agencies; no formal board motion or new fiscal appropriation was made during the meeting.