HAMBURG, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Town of Hamburg Planning Board was filled with people demanding their elected officials stop the construction of an asphalt plant.
“We are a tight knit community and we don't want to see it ruined by a business that is going to bring terrible odors and toxic emissions, especially this close to our schools,” said Jillian MacDonald. She lives in the Village of Hamburg.
The plan is to turn the old Riefler Concrete site on Camp Road into AL Asphalt Corporation. The owner's representation says, the land is already zoned correctly.
“We've addressed the issues that are required by the town code,” said Corey Auerbach, a partner with Barclay Damon.
Neighbors who live close by are mainly concerned about smell and pollutants. One girl says, she doesn't want Hamburg to be like the town she drives through in Pennsylvania while on vacation.
“We call it ‘Stinkytown’ because it has a plant there that sends so much odor, that you can smell it through your car. And I hold my nose the whole way through,” said Kennedy Calvert.
Of these complaints, the owners of the property say they have a lot of questions already answered with studies they've presented to the board.
“There is substantial information regarding proposed admissions and order issues that we heard about this evening and we'll continue to supplement the record with documentation,” added Auerbach.
The plan still needs to pass an environmental review. The people fighting the proposal say their fight is just beginning.
“There are too many moms in our neighborhood that are not going to sit quietly and let that happen,” added MacDonald.
This won't be the last time for Hamburg residents to voice their opinions on this proposed asphalt plant there will be another public hearing on the matter on September 4th at Hamburg Town Hall in Hamburg.
Opponents have also launched a Change.org petition against the plan. Click here to learn more.
