Moratorium Imposed on New Chemical Plants

Under pressure from residents in Lynwood to shut down a chemical manufacturing plant and its incinerator, the City Council has imposed a 45-day moratorium on construction of such facilities.

Some residents have complained about odors from the Cargill plant and the release of possibly harmful materials from the incinerator. They had asked the council to close the plant, which manufactures resins used in plastic and paint products.

The council concluded this week that it lacks the authority to close the plant. But it asked the city administrative staff to look into ways the city can regulate the plant and the incinerator at 2800 Lynwood Road. The moratorium does not affect the Cargill plant.