Nebraska Nixes Scrap Recycler’s Move

The Omaha Planning Board denied a scrap recycler’s plan to relocate their facility earlier this week.

The board denied a permit request by Ak-Sar-Ben Scrap Iron and Metal to move from its present location to another site in a small industrial park. The company is being forced to move from its existing location by the Omaha, Nebraska arena/convention center, which is planning on using the space for parking.

The present location handles a myriad of nonferrous metals. David Leslie, owner of the recycling facility, says only a minimal amount of processing is undertaken at the yard. The company acts as a buyback center for aluminum, copper, brass and other materials. The company has been owned and operated by its present owners for 20 years.

The present location does not have any covering. However, Leslie notes that the location the company was hoping to relocate would be indoors and have a fence to eliminate concerns about the location being an eyesore for the area.

One problem is that the industrial park the company hoped to move to was adjacent to a neighborhood which was aggressive in their opposition to the facility.

The company originally had until May 13 to fine a new location. The company now has until Oct. 16th to find a new location.

According to Leslie, the company had received a letter of approval from the Planning Department before being turned down by the Planning Board.