Versailles, In. — As Sunman area residents protest the proposed MGPI of Indiana barrel aging operation, Ripley County commissioners are taking legislative action but it might be too late. MGPI of Indiana plans to age up to 300,000 barrels to age in two warehouses.
Concerns center around mold that is fueled by ethanol or the “angels share” that escapes during the maturation process. The mold, Baudoinia compniacensis, can grow in any temperature and is known to coat the surfaces of houses, cars and signs near barrel aging facilities.
Commissioners are considering changes to the zoning ordinance, but that action could too late since the building has been purchased and officials at IDEM are already reviewing the permit application. If the plan is grandfathered in after zoning changes are made, a long legal battle could result.
Sunman residents recently packed the town hall to demand answers from town council members, but have turned to commissioners after town elected officials expressed little concern amidst a sea of opposition.
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management will hold a public meeting February 28 in the Milan High School at 5:30 p.m.
