A farmer could be a step closer to moving 5,000 pigs onto a farm in Jackson County's Concord Township, if he gets the okay at a key meeting Thursday night.
Many neighbors are trying to block the hog farm because they're concerned the smell will be unbearable. Thursday the planning commission will decide if the farm meets all the necessary permit requirements to move forward. The state already okay-ed the proposal, which includes an odor management plan. Owners say they'll build the farm away from the road, then plant trees around it which should reduce the smell to nearby homes.
Neighbors aren't convinced that'll work. There are about 50 homes within a mile of the farm and many of those homeowners came to a public hearing earlier this week. They say the smell is only one problem, they're also concerned about health hazards with the farm being so close to their water sources.
Supporters say all this shouldn't be an issue since the farm is being built in an agriculture community. Thursday's meeting is at 7:30 p.m. Normally it would be held at the township offices but it's been moved it to the community center off Homer Road because they're expecting a big crowd.
If the planning commission gives it the green light, the final say still has to come from the township's board of trustees.
