Two dozen complaints filed over Lakewood chemical odor
Cleveland Division of Air Quality is investigating a pungent smell reported since Oct. 22, with plans to distribute sampling canisters to residents.
By Chioma Brooks ·
More than two dozen formal complaints have been filed with the Cleveland Division of Air Quality regarding a persistent chemical-like odor in Lakewood and parts of Cleveland. Roman Fedorko, the division's chief of air pollution enforcement, confirmed the number of reports on Oct. 28. The complaints describe the scent as pungent, leathery, and chemical in nature.
The issue began to draw attention on Oct. 21, when Sheari Connor dropped her children at school. Her son reported that the air smelled awful and was hurting his lungs. Connor described the odor as a combination of melting leather and chemicals. She noted that while she had noticed similar smells in the past, the intensity on that morning was unusual. Connor, whose child has asthma, has not yet received a response from the county regarding her report.
Lakewood Councilman Matt Bixenstine began receiving calls from residents on Thursday. He stated that the steady stream of reports has continued since then. The complaints are concentrated in the historic Birdtown neighborhood on the east end of Lakewood. However, Bixenstine said reports have also come from other parts of Lakewood and the West Park neighborhood in Cleveland.
Investigators from the Division of Air Quality visited the affected areas on Monday and Tuesday. Fedorko said the source of the smell remains unknown to his department. Bixenstine noted that the odor is primarily reported during evening and overnight hours. He encouraged residents to call the division's 24/7 hotline at (216) 664-7442 to provide real-time data that can help pinpoint the source.
Connor posted to social media after receiving no direct response from the county. She expressed concern for the health of her children and neighbors, specifically fearing a toxic trigger for her asthmatic son. Her post, along with complaints directed at Bixenstine, prompted further official engagement with the air quality team.
The division's next step is to follow up with individuals who filed formal complaints. Fedorko said three to four canisters will be handed out to residents. These devices will collect air samples for laboratory testing and data collection. The goal is to identify the specific cause of the odor.
Fedorko stated the investigation is underway and ongoing. The division aims to use the collected samples to determine the origin of the chemical scent. Residents are currently waiting for the results of these initial field tests.
