South Side Neighbors Demand City, State Step Up Enforcement At Stench-Filled Oil Plant

Longstanding complaints about the odors from Pullman Innovations have plagued South Deering residents for decades. The facility, located at 2701 E. 100th St. , produces vegetable oil for chicken feed and biofuels, contributing to unpleasant smells that locals have likened to dead fish and spoiled food. Ald.

Peter Chico and state Sen. Robert Peters are advocating for increased air monitoring and emissions testing in response to community outcry. Chico announced plans for a town hall to update residents on the situation and to urge the company to implement immediate odor reduction measures. Last year, the city’s 311 help line recorded 50 complaints about the odors, with 24 logged already this year. This ongoing issue has led to a sense of neglect among residents, who feel that the area is less welcoming to visitors.

Historical data shows that the prior owner of the facility, Agri-Fine, faced similar complaints from 1993 to 2015, resulting in lawsuits and bankruptcy. Although officials have not directly connected the odors to health problems, they stress the need for fresh air for the community.