CATAWBA, S.C. — A group of community members has filed a citizen suit against New-Indy Containerboard paper mill for Clean Air Act violations.
According to a 60-day notice of intent sent to New-Indy, as well as the EPA and SCDHEC, the suit was filed for violations of an emission limit imposed by the CAA. The notice suggests New-Indy violated the emission limits imposed by the EPA in an emergency order.
In an order filed in June 2022, said it will require New-Indy to take specific actions by specific deadlines to resolve one dispute among all parties involved and that the plant must increase pollution control equipment to prevent further problems, according to the order.
It also said New-Indy must also improve its wastewater treatment system after DHEC officials found the company failed to maintain it in good condition due to a build-up of sludge. In addition to changes that must be made to the plant, New-Indy must also pay a civil penalty of $129,360 to DHEC.
On a quiet street in Rock Hill, you'll find Carrie Bishop's house. It's a place where she and her family have made memories for over five years. Her family made finishing touches over the years, including a handmade wooden deck and an outdoor firepit that stopped mid-project. They are not being ripped up.
“I just can’t do it anymore," Bishop said.
She said a smelly neighbor to her west is sending her packing.
“I’m excited just because the fines that it would impose are a little bit better than what has come down from the EPA and DHEC," Bishop said.
While things might be moving in a direction, Bishop is moving too.
“I’m just meeting with the realtor tomorrow," Bishop said.
Her family is trying to escape a place where memories were made. That place is now replaced with the smell of defeat.
Contact Austin Walker at awalker@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.