Ordinance aims to improve safety at VIM Recycling Plantby Ed Ernstes (ernstes@wsbt.com)
After an explosion and a fire at the VIM recycling plant in Elkhart County, a new safety ordinance was passed on Tuesday to increase safety standards in the workplace. (WSBT photo) ELKHART COUNTY — There are new guidelines for a controversial business in Elkhart County. Commissioners have adopted several new rules for the VIM Recycling Plant. Multimedia Related Content
An explosion and fire at the plant in June 2007 killed one worker and injured another. The huge fire burned for several days. Neighbors have said many times they are concerned about the plant's safety. For months, Elkhart County leaders have been keeping a close eye on the plant. On Tuesday, commissioners approved an ordinance dealing specifically with safety. It set tougher standards for everything from air quality and wood grinding methods to storing recycling items and keeping down the dust. "Well I think what they've done is put down some parameters on paper that sound good, but don't really have teeth,” said Kim Ferraro, a lawyer who represents the neighbors. "Based on their past track record of 15 years of noncompliance of any laws, including zoning laws, it’s just more of the same." But VIM spokesman Tom Holt said he feels the company has taken more than adequate steps to meet the concerns of neighbors. “We’re still very pleased with what's going on here,” said Holt. “The county is doing its best for the neighbor's needs and you know we're open to working with them as long as we stay fair and it continues a level playing field for all the people who do this kind of business in the area." But some neighbors still aren't as optimistic. "I think there has been some progress made,” said neighbor Annette Freel. “I think there is a lot of room for more improvements.” “History has shown that regardless of what they say is going to happen, it doesn't happen," added neighbor Wayne Stutsman. The lawyer for the neighborhood says the matter may not be over. If it comes down to it, she said the matter may end up in court to resolve neighborhood concerns. Most PopularMore Good Stuff |
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