Why This Project's Is Improperly Zoned!
The current Bright Feeds application (for use at 6124 Potters Lane) was submitted as H1 manufacturing zoning which is permissible for light industrial uses. Based on Bright Feed's corporate documents, what they have said publicly in township meetings, and how they are regulated in CT, they are a resource recovery center and should be zoned H14. In fact, Chapter 27, section 27-304, Item 81, of our townships zoning laws, specifically excludes the transfer or processing of solid waste.
By legal and statutory definition, this means they are a Resource Recovery Center (H14) and not a manufacturing facility (H1).
Our Concerns
Noxious Odors
The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) in CT investigated and issued a violation for nuisance odors in June 2024, with locals reporting that it smelled like rotting food and one describing feeling nauseous walking from their car to home.
Significant Noise Pollution
Even after mitigation, Bright Feeds is currently operating only during the day at their location in Berlin, CT because the facility cannot meet local noise ordinances. They will likely be in violation in Plumstead and history has proven we lack strong enforcement mechanisms.
Infrastructure Can't Support This
PennDot agreed to not use the roadway for its own trucks because Potters Lane is so narrow (18.5 ft wide), yet Bright Feeds plans to use up to 75 ft tractor and trailers.
Safety worries
An additional 20+ semis coming into our township each day will pose safety hazards and increase the risk for anyone using the roads in our community. Operations near the gas pipeline also will put our township at significant risk of a gas explosion.
Impact on Water
Bright Feeds use of water may deplete wells of local residents. They also pose an environmental risk with related companies being charged for polluting local streams.
Economic Impact
Multiple studies have shown that property values near recycling centers fall by 10-20% as a result of recycling and waste facilities. This will cost residents hundreds of thousands of dollars and also impact township property tax revenues negatively.
A Threat to Our Way of Life
The odor, noise, and traffic will impact the entire fabric of our community. We will no longer be able to enjoy being outdoors, going on walks or riding bikes, and/or the natural beauty of our township.
Friends Against Bright Feeds is a politically diverse group of Bucks County citizens working to stop the construction of a solid waste recycling center that will negatively impact the safety of our roads, the local environment, and the quality of life in our community.
We believe that allowing Bright Feeds into Plumstead will destroy the fabric of our community and put our residents at risk.
Upcoming Actions & Events
Planning Commission Work session (This meeting has been canceled)
Oct 23 | 7:00 PM
Where: 5186 Stump Rd, Pipersville, PA 18947
Board of Supervisors Meeting
Nov 12 | 7:00 PM
Where: 5186 Stump Rd, Pipersville, PA 18947