Health Concerns Raised About Auto Recycling Facility

By Colleen Chen, NEWS 9

EL RENO, Oklahoma -- Haker and Baker Properties wants to build an auto salvage recycling facility at 1200 N. Grand Avenue in El Reno. It's across the street from a brand new neighborhood called Pleasent Oaks.

Donnis Felix lives in the quiet neighborhood, but worries all that is about to change.

"I'm concerned about the increased traffic, the potential health risks, and my property value if this recycling facility gets built," Felix said.

Homeowners are also worried about their children who currently feel safe biking along neighborhood roads. The increased traffic could change that.

Because the area the proposed facility would go is zoned as industrial, El Reno city officials said the developers have a legal right to put the business there. It's why city council members met Tuesday evening to discuss restrictions that could be placed on the open property. In the end they decided to give the business the go ahead.

Many resident's biggest concerns are whether the facility will factor into their health. Many suffer from breathing problems and worry about pollution in the are from the salavage business.

Brad Baker is one of the developers who are looking to put the facility in.

"This is going to be a green facility. Neighbors don't need to worry. We're not hiding anything," Baker said.

Haker and Baker Properties said they plan to be good neighbors and resident's concerns are addressed in their plan.

Although 15 additional restirctions were put on the property, El Reno residents of Pleasant Oaks remain skeptical at best.