DURHAM -- Pickering residents turned out en masse at the Region's works committee to voice their displeasure about a proposed odour control facility (OCF).
At least 75 people turned out to the standing-room-only meeting, where more than 50 people had signed up to speak in opposition to the OCF, which is to service an expansion of the York Durham Sewer System. Also known as the Big Pipe, the system brings sewage from York through Durham to be treated at the Duffin's Creek sewage plant. An expansion to the Big Pipe would allow for future growth in York.
Many of the residents made the same point: York's waste should be dealt with in a facility in York, not in a plant to be located near residential neighbourhoods in Pickering.
"So I say let those who create the waste look after their own odour control," said resident Mike O'Neill.
Margaret Tsetsakos agreed.
"Why should my property value decrease because of another Region's poor planning and why should Pickering continue to be the dumping ground for everyone," she said.
Michele Miles questioned the health effects of emissions from the OCF. Other complaints related to a perceived lack of communication.
"I did not hear about this site from the City of Pickering or the Region of Durham. I heard about this from a neighbour," said Don Cruse.
Over and over, residents asked what guarantee there would be that there wouldn't be odours from the facility.
Delegations from the public continued into the afternoon. Regional staff were to respond to issues raised by the residents after the public had their say.
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