Dozens Sound Off on Husky Refinery Air Pollution Permits

SUPERIOR, Wis – Husky Energy has applied for several air pollution permits through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

But some people in the community have remained concerned about what will happen when Husky becomes fully operational again.

The DNR has already completed a preliminary review of the permit applications, but the agency wants to hear the community input before any final decisions are made.

The permits would enable the refinery to rebuild and replace equipment damaged from the 2018 explosion.

If the permits are approved the refinery would be able to get back business.

At full operation, the refinery can produce up to fifty thousand gallons of crude oil per day.

The refinery also employees about 200 people.

“We need those good paying jobs. It raises the bar of quality of life for every body. People in those jobs their children can go to school and get better educated. That’s what we need here we need all businesses but those jobs are top quality,” said Keith Allen.

No seat went unfilled at the public meeting.

Nearly 50 people had the chance to give their reasons why the permits should or should not be approved.

Those against the permits are worried the rebuild of the refinery isn’t in the best interest of the community.

“The corporation is not caring for the people enough. They are worried about their finances and what’s the cheaper way to go to keep high profitability going. I’m just worried with this hydrogen fluoride is leaving people in a kill zone,” said Scot Bol.

After the analysis of the Rebuild project, the DNR has recommended approval of the applications.

All public feedback will be considered before the DNR determines if the permits will be approved.

A final decision is expected to be made in the next 60 days.