Boyle Heights residents voiced their anger and frustration at Mayor Karen Bass and Lineage Logistics executives during a community meeting Thursday, more than three weeks after a fire at a massive cold-storage warehouse led to an estimated 85 million pounds of food rotting.
The fire, which occurred on June 17, knocked out refrigeration at the nearly 500,000-square-foot Lineage Logistics facility. Residents packed Stevenson Middle School, demanding answers and relief from the overpowering stench that has plagued their neighborhood.
Signs displayed by attendees, including one that read "WE'RE BEING POISONED," reflected the community's sentiment. Mayor Bass, accompanied by Councilmember Ysabel Jurado and Supervisor Hilda Solis, struggled to address the crowd, which repeatedly interrupted speakers and booed presentations.
Bass acknowledged the situation as an "environmental injustice issue," noting that communities of color often bear a disproportionate burden from environmental disasters. However, her attempts to regain control of the meeting, including asking the audience to clap if they wanted to listen, were unsuccessful.
Residents reported enduring strong odors, rat and insect infestations, and health problems such as headaches, nausea, sore throats, eye irritation, and breathing difficulties. Many described being forced to stay indoors, especially during warmer weather, and business owners cited a significant drop in customers due to air quality concerns.
Accusations were also leveled against Lineage Logistics and solar contractor Altus Power, with residents suggesting legal disputes were delaying the demolition and cleanup process. Previous meetings, they contended, had offered little more than vague promises.
Mayor Bass pledged to "fight" for Boyle Heights, mentioning potential housing assistance and financial support for affected residents. She suggested a 45-day timeline for resolution, a goal Lineage described as "very aggressive," further fueling the residents' impatience.
Lineage Logistics Chief Operating Officer Jeff Rivera faced a hostile reception. He announced the company would offer air purifiers, utility assistance, and housing vouchers. Rivera acknowledged the fire started on the warehouse roof but did not elaborate on a previous Lineage warehouse fire in Washington state when questioned.
Investigators have not yet determined the cause of the June 17 fire, though questions have been raised about rooftop solar equipment at the facility. Los Angeles County health officials stated that response efforts include odor control, indoor air quality improvements, and temporary relocation options for those most affected.