June 4, 2024

A message from Council Member Chavez

I’m thankful for the advocacy and commitment of Phillips residents to environmental justice. They deserve clean air, water, and a place to thrive, not just survive.

Today, The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced a settlement with Smith Foundry to resolve the accused violations of the Clean Air Act. 

Under the terms of the settlement, Smith Foundry will:

• Immediately shut down two of the foundry’s pouring and cooling lines.
• Limit the total amount of liquid metal poured on the remaining lines to 2884 tons before they are shut down.
• Permanently shut down the furnace, all remaining pouring/cooling lines, all mullers, and the shakeout system within the next 12 months.
• Pay an $80,000 penalty. This is a giant victory for our community. There is still more left to do but this is a moment to celebrate.

This is a giant victory for our community. There is still more left to do but this is a moment to celebrate.  

I’m also working with the East Phillips Neighborhood Institute and a variety of different partners to ensure the success of the East Phillips Urban Farm. Including communication with the Mayor's Office, Council Leadership, Hennepin County, and the Minneapolis Legislative Delegation. 

My office is committed to getting this across the finish line. 

Stay tuned,

Jason Chavez

Contact the Ward 9 Office

Email: jason.chavez@minneapolismn.gov
Phone: 612-673-2209

We've moved while work is being done in City Hall. Our office is in:

Room 100, Public Service Center
450 South 4th St.
Get directions

For reasonable accommodations or alternative format please contact 311. People who are deaf or hard of hearing can use a relay service to call 311 at 612-673-3000. TTY users call 612-263-6850. Para ayuda, llame al 311. Rau kev pab, hu 311. Hadii aad caawimaad u baahantahay, wac 311.