Environmental complaint received 2023-07-06 16:00:00
Source: Faircloth Forest Products
Source location: 201 Pinetree Trail
Swainsboro, Georgia 30401
Complaint location: Faircloth Forest Products area

This complaint is also against LJR Forest Products which is a facility under the same management as Faircloth Forest Products.

Response from Ms. Kirby via email: 
This is in reference to Faircloth Forest Products "Air Permit",  that was run in The Blade.  Let me begin by saying that THE CLEAN AIR ACT protects health and welfare from different types of air pollution.  This mill is already not following the act and with growth and additions, it will comply even less.  Our property is approximately 300 yards from this saw mill and we deal with the air pollution daily!  There are many problems that already affect us daily with existing mill without the approval of additions that you seem to want to approve.  The noise level is already unbearable at most times and it has taken away all of our peace and tranquility.  We can not enjoy being at home for all the NOISE!  At the same time, we are dealing with fallout from the mill such as smoke/smog settling down on us and constant sour smells.  There is a loud humming noise from the pellet mill that has increased as well.  Also this year, we have an additional problem of wood chips (sawdust) falling on our property, particularly our vehicles.  They have been covered with this fallout and I have advised a lawyer in Swainsboro along with pictures as documentation.  Our car detailer has told us that this residue will damage the paint on our vehicles!!  Keep in mind that we are breathing all this stuff into our lungs and God only knows what it is doing to our health and breathing.  We have valid concerns already with existing problems, this expansion will add to the levels of gases and different chemicals being released into the air and providing even greater damage to our health.  I know that you state this will be monitored, but I think these reports should be published and mailed to neighbors of the mill.

I also believe that a public hearing should be conducted to address the issues that are current and any issues the expansion may cause.  The method and frequency of monitoring should be discussed and any questions should be answered at this time.  The notice of public comment was hidden in our local paper in the middle of legal ads.  It should have been on a page in bold print so it was easily seen and should have been broadcast on our local radio station.  In addition, a personal letter should have been sent out to landowners within a 5-mile radius.  I strongly feel that I have legitimate concerns that need to be addressed.  It is my understanding that laws, rules and any government decisions should be fair to ALL people, not just one group pr entity.

Ms. Kirby has spoken with Richard MacNeely, a local lawyer in Swainsboro who represents Faircloth Forest Products, and has expressed her concerns to him several times.