Daywatch: City delays permit decision for Pilsen scrap metal shredder
Good morning, Chicago. Here are the top stories you need to know to start your day.
Good morning, Chicago.
The city failed to meet its own deadline yesterday, yet again delaying a decision on the fate of a scrap metal shredder in Pilsen with a history of environmental violations. The permit is largely retroactive at this point, covering operations from 2021 to 2024, but the city’s inaction has left the shredder’s neighbors concerned for their health.
Sims Metal Management’s operating permit for its facility at 2500 S. Paulina St. expired in November 2021. A month earlier, it was sued by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul for failing to show it was reducing air pollution there. This came after Sims was fined in 2018 by the U.S. EPA for emitting high levels of harmful particulate matter.
Data from five EPA-mandated air pollution monitors installed in 2022 have consistently shown that pollution from the facility is below levels that would cause short- or long-term health consequences. The city is weighing this data heavily as it makes the permitting decision, public health commissioner Olusimbo Ige told concerned community leaders during a private meeting Friday.
Read the full story from the Tribune’s Karina Atkins.
Here are the top stories you need to know to start your day.
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Suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO charged with weapons, forgery and other counts
Police arrested a suspect Monday in the Manhattan killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO after a McDonald’s employee in Pennsylvania alerted authorities to a customer who was found with a gun, mask and writings linking him to the ambush.
The chance sighting at the restaurant in Altoona led to a dramatic break in a challenging but fast-moving investigation that had captivated the public in the five days since the shooting that shook the health insurance industry.
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Mayor Brandon Johnson says top adviser voting in Texas is ‘personal matter’
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HelloFresh being investigated for alleged child labor violations at Aurora plant
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Grady Sizemore sticks with the Chicago White Sox, named offensive coordinator with the 2025 coaching staff
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“A lot of times, it’s nice to have somebody that can have an overarching perspective and be aware of trends and overarching philosophical stuff that is really important to keep an eye on, too,” Venable said yesterday at the MLB winter meetings. “That role is going to be really important to our staff.”
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Shedd Aquarium shows off new centerpiece Wonder of Water and a refreshed rotunda
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To help you navigate the clutter, we’ve put together a list of wine gifts that professionals actually recommend — perfect for any wine enthusiast on your list.
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