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Residents press city for action as Spraytech odors persist in northwest Bethlehem
Summary
Residents told council recurring foul odors from a facility called Spraytech have interfered with outdoor life and, they say, affected health. City staff said they would relay complaints to the Pennsylvania DEP and review permit status, but said enforcement authority rests with DEP.
Residents from northwest Bethlehem urged council Wednesday to press state regulators and explore local options after repeated foul odors from a company identified as Spraytech disturbed neighborhoods for years.
"They determine when we can walk our dog," said George Andrews, a resident who said the odor events last for hours and sometimes force people indoors. Multiple speakers said episodes have persisted for about four years and described respiratory and nuisance impacts on family members.
Another speaker said she has repeatedly contacted the DEP and believed the company had been fined previously. "They were found not to be using the scrubbers and the things that they should be using," she said.
City staff acknowledged they have received resident complaints and offered to follow up with the DEP to check permit status and enforcement activity. "We are aware of the complaints," the staff member told the council and said the facility’s permit language appears to prohibit malodorous emissions. The speaker emphasized the DEP, not the city, holds primary enforcement authority for air permits but said city staff will reiterate residents’ concerns and request updates from the agency.
Council members urged continuous follow-up. "Someone needs to stay on it because obviously this is something they've been dealing with for over four years now," Councilman Callahan said, and suggested state elected officials could be asked to intervene if DEP action is inadequate.
Residents urged the city to consider additional local tools, such as an air-quality board or stricter local standards. City officials did not commit to new local regulatory authority during the meeting and said they would pursue DEP contact and report back.
The council offered to speak with the residents after the meeting to continue the conversation.
(Reporting note: statements about permit terms and DEP authority were made by city staff during the meeting; follow-up with DEP would be required to confirm the current permit status.)
