KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – A concerned and at times angry group of Kalamazoo residents appeared at last night’s Town Hall to talk about odors coming from Graphic Packaging, some of them demanding that the plant be closed.
State health officials told the gathering that the plant is releasing enough hydrogen-sulfide to cause minor health concerns, especially for residents with asthma and other breathing problems.
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services spokesman Marcus Waslievich says now that they have put their finger on the issue, they plan more testing, more monitoring and more studies to make sure that remedial actions by the company and the city are working))))
But several speakers say they are losing their patience, with some demanding that the plant be shut down immediately.
Other residents were more pragmatic, thanking state officials for their findings, and urging the company to clean up its act.
Graphics Packaging International issued a statement last night saying they plan to spend $8 million this year on the problem, and Mill Manager Tom Olstad told last night’s session they are trying to end the odors, but it takes time.
Another session will be held May 24 for anyone who could not make last night’s meeting.
An air quality monitoring system has been installed that can be viewed online by anyone 24 hours a day to get updates, and more monitors will soon be installed and made accessible.
reporting from John McNeill
