Preserving our neighborhoods
By State Sen. Aaron Freeman (R-Indianapolis)
This week I wrote to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission opposing the construction of a wastewater treatment facility in Franklin Township. Upon looking at the conceptual site plan, I do not believe this project is in the best interest of the families in the nearby neighborhoods.
There are a number of reasons that this plan could be problematic, but health and safety risks are the most prominent issue. It is no secret that wastewater treatment facilities are inherently dangerous due to the nature of their operation – polluted water and large quantities of chemicals come into them every day. Residents are entitled to a level of safety in their own homes and the neighborhood in which they live. If this facility were to be constructed, bioaerosols such as viruses, bacteria and fungi could potentially spread to neighboring residents and result in a host of medical and health issues.
Additionally, the property where the facility is to be installed is in a well-known flood plain, which increases the possibility of sewage and chemicals spilling into water aquifers, tainting the groundwater and harming the surrounding wildlife.
We should take these concerns into consideration and listen to those whom this would affect on a day-to-day basis. Quality of life and property value of the nearby homes are sure to be negatively affected.
For all of the reasons above, as well as hearing from a number of concerned citizens, I am urging this project to be reconsidered.
If you have any questions or comments on this matter or others, I encourage you to contact me by email at Senator.Freeman@iga.in.gov or by phone at 800-382-9467.
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A high-resolution photo of State Sen. Aaron Freeman is available by clicking here.
