I live at the Fore River end of Sawyer Street in Ferry Village, South Portland.

In the morning, almost every morning, there is a petroleum smell in the air. It is distinct, unmistakable, foul and smells harmful. I would not go for a jog and breathe deeply.

I do not know if it is related to the tanks and the emissions coming from them or not. Maybe it comes from the Coast Guard, or some other industry in the neighborhood.

I have read that benzene gives off a sweet odor, so I don’t think the petroleum smell is benzene, but it’s not good and I am concerned also about benzene and other harmful chemicals coming from those tanks.

There are a lot of children, elderly people and others who are sensitive living here. People need to be protected from harmful chemicals. Those tanks should not be used for poisonous materials.

Thank you for listening and acting.

Adinah Barnett
South Portland