C.R. has no regard for public health, safety

The City of Cedar Rapids has clearly demonstrated a flagrant disregard for public safety or the environment with its handling of the Farmstead Foods (Sinclair) property.

The fire that was allowed to burn exposed the downwind populations to a “witches' brew” of toxic combustion byproducts and carcinogens. Thousands of pounds of air pollutants are being released at a time when residents are prohibited from burning a pile of leaves.

If a business was causing the situation, it would be shut down and face thousands of dollars in fines. For some reason, city officials (with surprising support from the Linn County Health Department) feel they don't have to follow the same rules.

The city knew it had a fire risk when the property caught fire several months ago, and to allow that risk to remain was irresponsible at best.

Chuck Duthler

Cedar Rapids