Stonecrest residents urge council to deny Metro Green business license over health concerns

During the Stonecrest City Council meeting held on December 16, 2024, significant concerns were raised regarding the proposed business license for Metro Green, a company associated with fossil fuel operations. Residents voiced their apprehensions about the potential health and environmental impacts of the facility, emphasizing the need for caution in light of ongoing climate change challenges.

Brenda Whitaker, a local resident, expressed her worries about the factory's presence in the community, particularly highlighting the risks it poses to senior citizens. She urged the council to deny Metro Green a business license, reflecting a broader sentiment among community members who fear the implications of allowing such a company to operate in their area.

Another resident, Kathy Andrews, echoed these concerns in a written statement, calling for the denial of both the business license and the certificate of occupancy for Metro Green. She pointed out the numerous problems associated with the company and its potential dangers to public health and the environment.

In response to these public comments, the city attorney clarified that the decision regarding business license denials is not made by the mayor or city council but rather by an appointed hearing officer, as stipulated in the city’s long-standing ordinances. This procedural detail aims to ensure transparency and adherence to established practices in handling such appeals.

The meeting also included a public hearing segment, where residents were reminded of the rules for participation, including the option to submit comments via email. This approach underscores the city council's commitment to engaging with community members and considering their input in decision-making processes.

As the council continues to navigate the complexities surrounding Metro Green's proposed operations, the discussions from this meeting highlight the community's strong opposition to potential environmental hazards and the importance of regulatory processes in safeguarding public health. The next steps will involve the appointment of a hearing officer to address the appeals related to the business license, ensuring that community concerns are formally considered in the decision-making process.