Franklin BOC to Hold Called Meeting Tonight to Discuss GRP Biofuel Plant

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners is holding a special called meeting this evening to discuss the GRP biofuel plant on Highway 198 in Carnesville.

In an agenda received by WLHR News, no specific issue is listed to be discussed, but we have learned the meeting was called by Commissioner Eddie Wester.

Residents living near the plant have been at nearly every County Commission work session and meeting to publicly complain about the pollution, noise and stench coming from the plant and demanding the County do something.

So far, there has been no response or action taken by the County other than to say they are looking into the allegations.

In November, Commissioner Ryan Swails said he visited the properties surrounding the plant.

At the time, he told the citizens at that meeting he is committed to ensuring GRP adheres to State and Federal guidelines.

“My goal is to do my best, along with other county officials, to ensure they (GRP) do what they say they are going to do,” he told the crowd. “If not, there are other agencies out there. I know the EPD is involved trying to gather more information as far as how much damage occurred and what can be done to prevent it in the future. I’m sorry that it’s come to this point, but I can tell you that the wheels are turning, and that we are trying to figure out what we can do to resolve this.”

Tonight’s meeting takes place at 6p at the Justice Center in Carnesville and is open to the public.