Pilsen Residents Demand Halt to Sims Metal's Permit Renewal Amid Pollution Concerns

Community groups urge Mayor Brandon Johnson to delay the permit process for Sims Metal Management due to its history of environmental violations.

Sims Metal Management, located in Pilsen, seeks a new operating permit despite past environmental law violations.
Community groups argue that Sims should not receive a new permit until it installs emission control equipment as promised.
Federal air monitoring around the facility has not detected dangerous pollution levels, but testing will continue as new controls are implemented.
Activists highlight a previous agreement with the EPA and a lawsuit by the Illinois Attorney General as evidence of Sims' recurring non-compliance.
Mayor Johnson faces pressure to uphold a HUD agreement to reform zoning and land-use practices that disproportionately affect low-income communities of color.