Inola City Council voted to approve a 60-day moratorium on the construction of a proposed aluminum smelter, temporarily halting the project that had been advocated for by former President Donald Trump.

Controversy Surrounds the Smelter

The project has faced controversy over its possible impacts on the environment, as well as its foreign ownership. Supporters say building the smelter would boost the U.S. economy and play a significant role in national security.

The Emirates Global Aluminium, which is a state-owned enterprise of the United Arab Emirates, holds a 60% controlling interest in the proposed Inola project. A Delaware company, Century Aluminum, holds the remaining 40% interest in the facility.

Public Debate and Concerns

The decision followed public debate, with residents expressing concerns about the smelter’s potential side effects, while supporters highlighted its importance for the military and national security. One supporter noted that aluminum is the backbone of the modern military.

Opponents voiced environmental concerns about the plant, with one resident stating that the smelter could poison the local hay and harm the agricultural industry. Attendee Carl Day shared his experience of visiting a location near another aluminum smelter in Kentucky, where he found toxic soil samples.

Gubernatorial Race and the Smelter

The two Republican candidates in Oklahoma’s gubernatorial race have opposing views on the smelter plant. Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, who is running for governor, filed a lawsuit to block the plant, citing environmental concerns and foreign ownership. His opponent, Trump-endorsed Mike Mazzei, has voiced his support for the smelter, stating that it would play a vital role in national security and boost America’s economy.

Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.