In a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the operations of A One Pump and Jet Services and its impact on local residents in Barclay Township. John Shearlinghouse, a local resident, detailed troubling experiences with the company, which has been disposing of industrial byproducts, including waste from a dog food plant, near his property. He recounted an incident from August 2018 when he witnessed a 3,500-gallon tanker discharging waste directly onto the ground, raising alarms about potential environmental hazards and health risks.

Shearlinghouse criticized the lack of transparency from the company and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), which oversees such operations. He expressed frustration over the difficulty in obtaining operational plans from KDHE, which outline how waste should be managed. He noted that the company has not adhered to its operational plan, particularly regarding the application of waste, which is supposed to be worked into the soil within 24 hours to mitigate odor and environmental impact.

The discussion highlighted the regulatory challenges faced by local authorities, as KDHE has limited oversight capabilities. Shearlinghouse urged the county to request all operational plans from the company to ensure compliance with environmental standards. He also pointed out that the company’s practices may violate federal regulations, including the Clean Water Act, and suggested that local conservation districts could play a role in addressing these issues.

Commissioners acknowledged the need for further investigation into the matter, emphasizing the importance of public health and environmental safety. They agreed to explore potential enforcement mechanisms and to gather more information on the operational practices of A One Pump and Jet Services, as well as the implications for the surrounding community. The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between industrial operations and residential well-being, with residents calling for greater accountability and oversight.