Omaha residents demand accountability over dust pollution from Crushing It operation

The Omaha City Council meeting on March 11, 2025, focused on significant concerns regarding a concrete crushing operation in the Sheelytown neighborhood, which residents claim has caused severe dust pollution and other disturbances. The meeting featured passionate testimonies from local residents, including John Sinewicki, who described the summer of 2024 as a "dust bowl," attributing the excessive dust to illegal operations by the company, Crushing It.

Sinewicki detailed how the company operated without the necessary air quality permits and failed to implement promised dust suppression measures. He expressed frustration over the lack of accountability, stating that the company had violated the conditions of its special use permit by crushing concrete too close to residential areas and neglecting to pave truck paths, which exacerbated dust issues.

Another resident, Gail Schnatz, echoed these concerns, highlighting the dangers posed by speeding trucks in a residential area and the constant dust accumulation in her home. She emphasized the impact on children and families living nearby, calling for action to address the pollution.

City officials acknowledged the complaints and confirmed that the company had been operating without proper oversight. They noted that the special use permit for the operation had not yet been issued, as the necessary conditions had not been met. Council members discussed the potential for revoking the permit if violations continued, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement moving forward.

Lance Paulson, CEO of Crushing It, admitted to operational misjudgments and acknowledged the dust issues, stating that the company had ceased crushing activities after receiving multiple stop work orders. He expressed a willingness to cooperate with residents and improve communication.

The council ultimately decided to approve the necessary plat for the special use permit, which they believe will strengthen their ability to enforce compliance in the future. However, several council members expressed their concerns about the precedent set by the company's previous violations and the need for accountability to ensure the health and safety of the community. The discussion highlighted the ongoing tension between industrial operations and residential quality of life in Omaha.