EGA brings forth the significance of its proposed Inola aluminium project amidst local opposition

Concerns about a proposed aluminium manufacturing facility at the Port of Inola were aired publicly on Monday evening, despite the project not formally appearing on the city council’s agenda. Councillors opened the floor for public comment at the outset of the meeting, giving residents an opportunity to raise objections and seek clarity.

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A number of local residents used the session to express unease about the potential impact of the development, particularly around environmental safety, water quality and the effect on everyday life in nearby neighbourhoods.

Among those who spoke was Brian Hill, an Inola resident of 15 years, who said his property lies just metres from the land earmarked for the plant, which is being proposed by Emirates Global Aluminum. According to Hill, homes to the north of his own would also fall within close range of the site.

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Hill told councillors that residents have yet to receive clear or comprehensive information about the environmental implications of the project. He said the absence of publicly available studies has heightened anxiety within the community.

Others also opined the same, citing fears of possible  contamination of  local  water systems and  the risks posed by industrial byproducts, mostly heavy metals. 

Others echoed similar concerns, citing fears of possible contamination of local water systems and the risks posed by industrial by-products such as heavy metals. Several speakers also raised questions about the potential effects on surrounding wildlife and ecosystems.

Altogether, the residents highlighted the project was introduced to the community in not the right way. Some residents informed that they became aware late in the process and argued that transparency had been lacking. One speaker questioned whether the interests of local families were being adequately prioritised, given the company’s foreign ownership.

However, Emirates Global Aluminum, the world’s one of the leading producers of premium aluminium, has assured residents about the proposed project by bringing forth its scale and significance. The company says the Inola site would become the first new primary aluminium smelter built in the United States in more than four decades and would effectively double the country’s current aluminium production capacity.

In a written statement, the company’s chief executive described the project as a major step towards revitalising American industrial manufacturing. He added that engineering firm Bechtel, which has extensive experience in large-scale industrial developments, would play a central role in advancing the project.

Following the meeting, the city’s mayor declined to comment on specific issues raised by residents, explaining that the aluminium plant had not been listed for discussion on the official agenda. She said, however, that she respected the views expressed by members of the public.

According to the company, the proposed facility would support approximately 1,000 permanent jobs once operational, with an estimated 4,000 construction roles created during the build phase.

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