Science & Nature
Neighbors Complain of ‘Horrific Smell’ Coming From Southeast Side Factory
Some Southeast Side neighbors say their community reeks.
Residents in the South Deering community have been complaining of a putrid stench coming from a vegetable oil plant for decades now. The Pullman Innovations facility has reportedly been the site of a major disturbance to those living near it, who call the odor unbearable.
“My kids grew up smelling dead animals and rotting fish,” said Ljiljana Radocaj, a mother and resident of the 10th Ward. “It’s the most horrific smell — you can’t even describe it. You can just run from it.”
She describes days when her children weren’t able to go outside for recess or spend time at the local park, which is in close proximity to the facility, forcing people inside their homes with windows closed.
Pullman Innovations has fielded dozens of complaints from residents confronted by the odor, but repeated citations from the city haven’t yielded the results or progress necessary to stop the stench.
In a statement, the Chicago Department of Public Health said: “The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) has been working to address community concerns related to Pullman Innovations for many years, including meeting with the alderman’s office, conducting routine and complaint inspections, and issuing violations when applicable. However, CDPH recognizes that prevention is key and has also been working with the facility to determine what new odor-reducing control equipment can be used and with other relevant departments and agencies at the local, state and federal levels.”
Similarly, the Illinois EPA said that it’s “aware of the odor complaints in the area. EPA is currently working with the company to ensure they are in compliance with environmental regulation, but keeping with a longstanding practice, the agency does not comment on active enforcement actions.”
Ald. Peter Chico (10th Ward) said his office phone rings daily with complaints from his constituents. State Rep. Curtis Tarver (D-Chicago), state Sen. Robert Peters (D-Chicago) and Chico penned letters to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency addressing their concerns in hopes of attracting more immediate action.
“This has been going on for 50 years,” Chico said. “I guarantee you, if this were (happening) up north, this would not be an issue any longer.”
Inhaling foul-smelling odor is not only a nuisance but can trigger lasting physical and mental health problems.
“Anything you’re smelling, you’re ingesting into your body,” said Oscar Sanchez, co-executive director of the Southeast Environmental Task Force. “You have communities breathing in these chemicals every single day.”
Sanchez emphasizes concerns of environmental racism, citing that the 10th Ward is a predominantly Black, Brown and working-class community where many residents experience negative health outcomes.
“How can children go outside and play in the sun when you can’t?” Sanchez said. “It’s the quality of life that we’re really fighting for.”
