Read the full article by Chloe Vincente (WBNG)

“ENDICOTT (WBNG) — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation says it’s still waiting for a new permit application from the company planning to operate a lithium ion battery recycling facility on Clark Street.

A spokesperson for SungEel MCC Americas tells 12 News the company is working with the DEC. As we’ve reported, the DEC required the company back in May to apply for a new air state facility permit after the state became aware that some of the lithium ion batteries could contain poly fluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS.

It’s been an ongoing battle in Endicott, with many people in the village questioning if it’s safe to operate a facility like this in a residential neighborhood.

‘It would be absolutely devastating,’ said Endicott resident Olwen Searles, who lives less than a mile from where SungEel hopes to recycle thousands of tons of lithium ion batteries a year.

‘We’re going after them, we are not going to let this happen, it’s just not going to happen in our neighborhood,’ Searles told 12 News.

SungEel has repeatedly stated that levels of potential toxins would be safe, and monitored by the state. Endicott mayor Linda Jackson said she puts her trust in the DEC and residents should too…”