Neighbors Battle Against Industrial Growth in Naples

In the small town of Naples, a once-quiet family business has turned into a big industrial operation, causing a stir among neighbors. About 100 people gathered to discuss concerns about air quality and environmental damage linked to Panhandle Door Inc. (PDI), a cabinet door and drawer manufacturer. Kelli Martin, Jeffery Steinborn, and Jim Dewberry led the charge, claiming that PDI's activities had harmed the local environment and posed health risks. Martin recalled how her parents' property, nestled among trees, was once peaceful. But after PDI's expansion, she noticed a strong chemical smell and worried it had contributed to her parents' health issues. Public records show multiple complaints about air quality and hazardous materials. The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) even sent a warning letter to PDI's owner, Nelson Mast, citing several violations.

Steinborn argued that PDI's current location in a Forest/Agriculture zone isn't suitable for its industrial operations. Don Jordan and Kathy Konek, who own the access road to PDI, also raised concerns about increased traffic and noise, which they believe have lowered their property's value. They proposed that PDI build a dedicated road to the highway. Mast, who bought PDI in 2018, insisted he's tried to comply with regulations and run a clean operation. He's working with the Idaho Transportation Department to create a new access road. However, the Boundary County commissioners have delayed their decision until they gather more information about potential hazards at the site and road access changes.

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