NEBRASKA CITY, Neb. — Officials in Nebraska City are continuing efforts to address persistent odor issues linked to the local Cargill facility, as community frustrations mount.
During Monday night’s City Council meeting, residents again voiced concerns about strong smells emanating from the plant—particularly during overnight hours.
Three-Stage Plan to Address the Odor
Mayor Bequette said city officials are working closely with Cargill to implement a three-pronged strategy to reduce the smell:
- Immediate Efforts: The plant is testing odor-neutralizing chemicals to bind the particles causing the smell, while ensuring continued compliance with environmental regulations.
- Short-Term Fixes: Cargill is working to restore bacterial activity in its digesters and anaerobic lagoons, which were disrupted by previous cleaning processes.
- Long-Term Investment: Plans are underway to completely redesign the wastewater treatment system, which could cost tens of millions of dollars. The city is hoping for corporate-level investment from Cargill to help fund the improvements.
Cargill is optimistic about identifying a successful odor treatment chemical within two to three weeks.
Additional City Improvements Approved
In other city business:
- The City Council approved a JEO task order for improvements around City Hall, totaling $45,100.
- A second JEO task order for engineering services was approved for 5th Corso improvements (between 11th and 19th Streets), costing $161,150.