Chicago Manufacturing Plant Faces Lawsuit Over Foul Odor

The State of Illinois and the City of Chicago have filed a joint lawsuit against Pullman Innovations, alleging the Southeast Side manufacturing plant has generated excessive air pollution and persistent foul odors that have affected nearby neighborhoods.

Lawsuit Targets Pullman Innovations

Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson announced the civil enforcement action against A-F Acquisition LLC, which operates as Pullman Innovations.

The facility, located near 100th Street and Torrence Avenue, processes byproducts from commercial edible oil into animal feed ingredients.

According to the lawsuit, the company allegedly operated without required environmental permits, violated permit conditions, and created excessive odors and unlawful air pollution.

Residents Report Years of Odor Complaints

Officials said nearby residents have submitted hundreds of complaints describing odors similar to rotting fish, decaying meat, sewage, and rotten eggs.

The lawsuit also states that city inspectors experienced odors so strong they became nauseated while inspecting the facility.

Residents in nearby communities, including South Deering and the area around Vets’ Park, have complained that the smell has disrupted daily life for years.

Officials said schools have canceled outdoor recess on some days due to the odor, while families have reported keeping windows closed to avoid the smell.

State Seeks Environmental Compliance

The lawsuit follows a referral from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) and seeks to require Pullman Innovations to comply with Illinois environmental laws, improve emission controls, and pay civil penalties.

The government lawsuit is separate from an existing class-action lawsuit filed by neighborhood residents, which remains pending in court.

The case is being presented as part of ongoing efforts to address environmental concerns in the affected community.