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Neighbors urge removal of Indian Meadows pavilion, cite noise and alleged industrial emissions
Summary
Residents told the Olivette City Council that a pavilion at Indian Meadows Park draws large, late-night gatherings, marijuana smoke and vandalism and urged the city to move or remove the structure; several speakers also accused nearby AZZ Galvanizing of producing smoke and noise that they say is harming residents and wildlife.
At the Olivette City Council meeting on June 9, residents who live near Indian Meadows Park urged the council to remove or relocate the park pavilion, saying the structure draws frequent large gatherings, loud music and illegal activity that disrupt nearby homes.
"The park on Haran, ever since that park has been put up, there's been nothing but activities and problems there," said Lueta Buckles, who identified herself and gave her address to the council. Allison Miller, an HOA board member, told the council she can smell marijuana smoke coming into her home and said, "My kids have asthma; it comes into my house." Jenny Littleton, who said the pavilion sits next to her bedroom window, urged the council to "tear it down" or move it to the 5 Oaks community center.
Several speakers and neighbors said pavilion users park on residential streets, bring amplified speakers and inflatables, and have left trash and vandalism in park bathrooms. Wilhelmina Shackleford, who traced complaints back to 2008, said residents were told the pavilion would not be rented but that the city's website nonetheless lists the space as available, which she said attracts outside visitors.
Separately, multiple residents raised health and safety concerns about AZZ Galvanizing, a nearby industrial facility. "AZZ is an incredibly dangerous nuisance to our residents," said Felicia Ford, who described smoke that she said leaves users of the Greenway trapped in thick clouds and worried about children's exposure. Multiple commenters said they have observed dead squirrels and rabbits and described strong odors and noise from the plant.
Members of the council acknowledged the complaints and said they heard the community’s concerns. Mayor Lewis said the council would "look and follow up on everything we can and understand what's possible," but no formal action was taken at the meeting. The speakers asked the council to consider shorter-term steps—such as removing the pavilion, limiting rental or adjusting the park listing on the city's website—and to work with county or state authorities on industrial-emissions or nuisance enforcement where appropriate.
Next steps: The issue was raised and recorded during public comment; residents were invited to continue advocacy and provide additional materials to staff, and the council did not take a vote on the pavilion or on action regarding AZZ Galvanizing at the June 9 meeting.
