Working to Stop SOBE Pyrolysis from Polluting Youngstown, Ohio, Legal Options Pursued

"Zoning is another possible avenue the city is considering to halt SOBE’s operations. Currently, the spot where the plant sits on North Avenue is zoned as a mixed-use community, not light industrial. But according to Youngstown’s law director, they are in an uncertain legal limbo.

“'To make sure that we understand whether or not it’s currently zoned to allow for a change of process there — the fueling process — and whether or not this could even occur in a mixed-use community,' Limbian said. 'We don’t have the specific answer for that yet, but that’s what we’re working to make sure we understand.'

"The committee plans to have their resolution ready in time to be presented to city council at the September 20 City Council meeting being held at 5:30pm in Community Room at the Covelli Centre (DoubleTree by Hilton Room)

229 E. Front Street

Youngstown OH 44503

Article via WKBN https://www.wkbn.com/news/local-news/youngstown-news/those-opposed-to-proposed-plant-planning-legal-action/

Excerpt from Public Interest Center - May 2023 - Phase 1 - SOBE Thermal Energy Systems– Frequently Asked Questions READ DOC HERE

"Ohio EPA Division of Air Pollution Control is reviewing the application to determine if the proposed operations will comply with requirements and are protective of human health and the environment. If the proposed operations comply with all requirements, Ohio EPA has an obligation to issue a permit. Ohio EPA would issue a permit as draft and ask for public input. Ohio EPA would review and consider this public input prior to making a final determination regarding the permit. Authorization from Ohio EPA for this project would not supersede any safety requirements from other authorities, such as OSHA, the local fire department, local zoning authority, etc."

Excerpt from from May 12, 2023 letter from Anne Vogel, Director of Ohio EPA READ HERE

"Authorization from Ohio EPA for this project would not supersede any safety requirements from other authorities, such as OSHA, the local fire department, local zoning authority, etc."

Safety requirements from other authorities, such as OSHA, the local fire department, local zoning authority, etc. will have priority over any OEPA permit.