Nola.com's Mike Smith reported on a contentious zoning change vote by the St. John, Louisiana, Parish Council on Tuesday night has moved a proposed grain export terminal in St. John the Baptist Parish closer to realization. The decision follows a prolonged legal and political struggle involving local activists, the Greenfield Holdings company planning the terminal, and parish officials.
This development in the rural stretch of Wallace has been embroiled in controversy, particularly due to its location in an area known as Cancer Alley, which has long been subject to environmental justice concerns. The project faces opposition from The Descendants Project, a group of local activists. They argue that the terminal will detrimentally impact nearby historic areas that honor the legacy of slaves and exacerbate pollution issues.
Greenfield contends that the facility will be operated safely and promises to bring about 100 jobs to the area. The company has made charitable contributions in the community, indicating a commitment to its welfare.
Despite the vote to rezone about 1,300 acres of land from residential to industrial use, opposition remains strong. Opponents, anticipating further legal battles, are also waiting for a permit decision from the Army Corps of Engineers.
