On Monday, June 8 the Haviland Town Council gathered at the town hall at Maple and Vine. Peaceful Protesters were carrying signs that brought attention to a problem that Haviland residents are experiencing. The signs held by the protesters claim the town stinks due to issues with a Quasar Energy Group facility that is on SR 114 just west of the Haviland Village limits.
Resident Amber Scarberry stated that other town people have experienced health issues and believe it has to do with the intense odors that hit the town during the time the flame burns at the facility and when the wind is from the west.
What is it like? The concerned citizens said it’s very difficult to get any work done or even to enjoy the outdoors during this time. Amber stated that kids, including hers, are vomiting while waiting to be picked up by the bus to go to school. It’s very painful to watch and not be able to help the children. Others who were at the protest said when the wind is wrong, you cannot enjoy your pool and the smell can go right through the walls and air conditioners in their homes. Cooking on the grill is completely out on most days, and it’s very difficult to enjoy your swimming pool.
The Quasar Energy produces energy from animal and human wastes by fermenting the product in a digester tower. Not too long ago the digester was leaking, shown by pictures the protesters carried, running down from the top.
If all things are operating correctly there should be little to no smell in the 60# Methane and 40% Carbon Dioxide that is produced.
The town council has said they are listening, according to Councilwoman Cindi Moser, “The council said your voices are heard.” However, Cindi said she has not gotten a positive response from the EPA when she called them.
Amber, who served in Iraq, said, “The ditches in Iraq smelled better than this!”
“I understand the citizens concerns, but they (Quasar Energy) are outside the city limits.” Mayor Ed Ruger said.
Mary Friend, another resident, said they are protesting to bring awareness and of the pungent chemical smells. She also said property values have dropped since the facility was built.
Approximately 25 of city residents and people outside of the city showed up at the peaceful protest, all trying to make their village better for everyone.
We have reached out to Quasar Energy for a response as of yet, the corporation has not responded to requests.
Quasar has a phone number on their website. Nearby residents who are experiencing offensive odors may call 1-888-990-6367 (ODOR) and file complaints. You can also call the Ohio EPA Northwest District office in Bowling Green — 419-352-8461. Or call the Environmental Response, Investigation & Enforcement staff at OEPA— Mike Eberle is the supervisor – 330-963-1126
LAST MINUTE ADDITION BEFORE PRINT: The Mayor of Haviland, Ed Ruger, brought in a letter where he conversed with the owner and he would like to get this added:
This is Edwin Ruger the Mayor of Haviland. In reporting on the protest of the Haviland Citizens, I wanted to post that Wednesday, June 10th I received a phone call from Mr. Craig Stoller. Mr. Stoller is the Owner and operator of the Quasar Waste Recycling Plant here in Haviland. During the phone conversation, a meeting was planned and set up for Thursday June 11th to discuss operations at the Quasar Plant. Mr. Stoller gave me a tour of the plant and surrounding area. He fully explained the process of the plant and the improvements that are being put forth! Mr. Stoller as well as the Quasar plant ARE aware of the odor problem and are in the process of correcting the situation. Mr. Stoller made it known to me, that the problem and complaints of the citizen’s of Haviland has been heard and he is personally addressing this situation. It is my hope that this odor problem is corrected and headed into a more positive conclusion for the Village of Haviland as a whole.
Any precise questions need to be answered by Mr. Stoller!!!
