Managing editor
Marion resident Marsha Findeiss asked Marion City Council Monday to do something about the noise and air pollution near her home on North Coble Street.
She said she has lived at her residence for three years, which is near the Marion County shop and Hett Construction Company. Findeiss asked for clarification of zoning regulations in that area. It was determined that property 150 feet from Main Street was zoned general commercial. Findeiss’ property was zoned low density residential.
“It seems to me that there doesn’t seem to be much respect from my industrial neighbors,” Findeiss said. “There ought to be a noise and visual barrier between residential and commercial property.”
She also complained about the view from her property being primarily industrial equipment.
“The noise pollution and diesel exhaust pollution is not just (bad) for us in the block but for everyone in the city,” Findeiss said. “Why is that there?”
“The county shop has been there for about 40 years,” City Administrator David Mayfield said. “I believe it was grandfathered in when the city adopted zoning regulations.”
Mayor Mary Olson asked if there was a city ordinance regarding the idling of diesel engines, another complaint made by Findeiss.
It was determined that since the property is owned by the county and the operation was there before the city had zoning regulations, there wasn’t much the city could do. Council members suggested Findeiss contact the county. Findeiss said she had but did not get anywhere.
“According to city regulations, there’s supposed to be a barrier between commercial and residential properties,” Findeiss said, and asked if the city would be willing to erect some sort of barrier.
Findeiss also complained about the privately owned construction company, east of Coble Street residences, using an alley behind her house to obtain access to the property, causing dust.