URGENT UPDATE: Residents living near the largest Dunkin’ facility in the United States are raising alarm bells over overwhelming doughnut odors, expressing serious concerns about air quality. The facility, located in Creek Brook, has sparked significant community unrest as residents voice their frustrations at a recent City Council meeting.
Sean Wilson, a resident just a quarter-mile from the facility, stated that for the past two months, his home has been engulfed in the scent of doughnuts. “It’s distracting, and it’s heavy,” Wilson said during the council session. “You’re just overwhelmed by the smell of doughnuts.” His testimony reflects an urgent need for action as the council considers a proposal to install tanks that would store thousands of pounds of shortening—potentially exacerbating the problem.
The bakery currently produces an astonishing 1 million doughnuts daily and supplies approximately 300 stores. With the proposed tanks, this number could soar to 800 stores, raising further concerns among locals about their air quality. Wilson expressed uncertainty about opposing the tank installation but stressed the need for reassurances regarding the safety of the air in their community.
In response to the residents’ concerns, J.T. Couch, a representative from Creek Brook CML, assured council members that the facility takes “extreme measures” to mitigate air emissions. He emphasized that each fryer is equipped with a dedicated hood system, similar to those found in standard kitchens. However, this declaration has not quelled the fears of residents like Wilson.
City Councilor Shaun Toohey acknowledged hearing similar complaints from the community. He proposed to postpone the vote on the tank installation until January, allowing for a necessary air quality assessment to ensure residents’ health and safety are prioritized.
As the situation develops, residents remain anxious about the implications of the facility’s operations on their quality of life. “We need to know if the air is safe to breathe,” Wilson added, highlighting the emotional impact of the situation on families living in the vicinity.
This urgent matter continues to unfold as concerned citizens await the City Council’s next steps. The potential for increased production at the Dunkin’ facility raises significant questions not only about local air quality but also about the responsiveness of local authorities to residents’ health concerns.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed as further developments are expected in the coming weeks. The community’s voice is crucial as they navigate this pressing issue, advocating for their right to a healthy living environment.
