A metal refinery located in Millersburg, just outside Albany, is once again facing complaints from residents regarding an unpleasant odor. Residents have expressed their concerns to city officials, leading to communication between the city of Albany and ATI Specialty Alloys and Components. The complaints were addressed in a report from City Manager Peter Troedsson to the City Council earlier in July.
The issue resurfaced when Councilor Ramycia McGhee reported via email in late June that constituents had reached out to her, noting, “the smell from last summer from ATI is back again.” This is not the first time Albany residents have raised concerns about the odors emanating from the refinery. Last year, ATI faced similar complaints, with the odor likened to that of cat urine or gym locker sweat.
ATI President Rob Foster issued a statement on June 30, clarifying that the odor is a nonhazardous byproduct of their production process. The specific compound responsible for the unpleasant smell is called mercaptoketones, which can be detected at very low concentrations; as little as one part per trillion. Foster noted that certain weather patterns, such as temperature inversions and shifts in wind direction, can exacerbate the odor by keeping it close to the ground. He explained that the plant’s operations, including shutdowns and restarts, can intensify the smell under specific conditions.
Foster stated, “While our February shutdown passed without incident, our June shutdown and ramp-up occurred during weather conditions that favored odor retention.” He also emphasized that ATI has implemented significant improvements over the past year to mitigate odors. “However, we know our work is not finished,” he added.
In addition to addressing the odor from its operations, Foster pointed out that other sources of odor exist in the area, including a nearby wastewater treatment plant. To combat this issue, ATI has invested in technologies aimed at reducing upstream odors, as well as enhancing employee training and establishing real-time odor monitoring systems.
Foster assured residents of the company’s commitment to transparency and responsiveness, stating, “As part of this neighborhood, we remain committed to being transparent and responsive.” Despite the measures taken, the persistence of odor complaints indicates ongoing challenges for both the company and the residents affected.
The situation continues to evolve as ATI works to address community concerns while maintaining its production of specialty materials. As the dialogue between the company and Albany residents progresses, further updates are anticipated.