Manteno residents challenge proposed Chinese battery plant due to toxic concerns
- Residents of Manteno, Illinois, are suing the village and Gotion over a proposed battery plant due to concerns about toxic chemicals and zoning violations.
- A judge ruled that the citizens can pursue their claims, particularly regarding nuisance, but dismissed the initial complaint for being too detailed.
- The plaintiffs plan to refile their complaint within 45 days, focusing on public health and safety issues related to the project.
In Manteno, Illinois, residents are actively opposing a proposed $2 billion electric vehicle battery plant by Gotion, which is set to be established in a former Kmart distribution center. The community has raised concerns regarding the use of toxic chemicals that violate local zoning laws, leading to a lawsuit against both the village and Gotion. Robby Dube, representing the citizens, reported that the Kankakee Circuit Court Judge Lindsay Parkhurst ruled against motions from the village and Gotion, allowing the citizens' claims to proceed. The judge indicated that the nuisance claim could potentially lead to relief if the allegations about harmful chemicals and traffic are substantiated. Despite the plaintiffs winning on the merits, the judge dismissed the complaint without prejudice, citing the need for a more concise and factual presentation of allegations. Dube plans to refile the complaint within the 45-day deadline, emphasizing the public's right to health and safety. He highlighted concerns about carcinogenic chemicals from the plant affecting local water and air quality, as well as the inadequacy of local fire services to handle lithium battery fires. The project has garnered significant support from Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, who has pledged substantial tax incentives. However, there are ongoing discussions about whether to include Gotion's alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party in the new complaint, as local representatives express concerns about the implications of these connections for national security and public safety.