UPDATE: Residents of Mentor, Ohio, are reeling as the EPA confirms the presence of toxic hydrogen sulfide gas in their sewer system, following years of ignored complaints. The alarming discovery was made during a state investigation initiated by local citizens earlier this year, revealing potential health risks that could threaten lives in the Woodhill subdivision.
For years, neighbors in Woodhill subdivision have endured an unbearable stench likened to “walking with a dirty diaper on your face.” Despite their persistent cries for help, local officials failed to escalate the alarming reports of a rotten egg-like odor to the EPA. Residents like Dennis Ryan, who has lived on Lenore Drive for decades, are questioning why it took so long for a serious investigation to occur. “Is it going to take someone dying from this before something gets done?” Ryan asked.
The issue, which has plagued the community for over seven years, escalated this spring when residents took matters into their own hands, reaching out to the EPA. By August 2023, investigators confirmed hazardous levels of hydrogen sulfide, with readings exceeding 1,000 parts per million—considered immediately dangerous to life and health.
Local authorities acknowledged that the smell has been tied to an industrial facility, Erie International Group, located about five miles away. Mentor officials stated that hydrogen sulfide readings at a nearby pump station had “maxed out the meter.” This raises serious concerns about the impact of the facility’s discharges on the Woodhill community.
In an official correspondence, Mentor’s Assistant City Manager, Robert Fowler, urged Lake County to focus investigations on Erie International, which has faced multiple odor complaints under previous ownership. The Ohio EPA has confirmed that changes were made to the facility’s wastewater pretreatment system without required state approvals, prompting a notice of violation.
Residents, including Shane Bergoch, who began documenting odor episodes in 2024, emphasize that this issue extends beyond quality of life—it is a public health crisis. “We are tired of being dismissed. This is not going away, and neither are we,” Bergoch stated in an email to officials.
The health risks associated with hydrogen sulfide are severe. Experts warn that even low levels can cause irritation and sickness, while higher concentrations can lead to unconsciousness or death. Dr. Ryan Marino, a medical toxicologist, noted that odors detected in the Woodhill area exceeded health-based exposure limits, potentially endangering residents.
In response to the EPA’s findings, Lake County Utilities has implemented several immediate actions, including installing odor-control scrubbers on manholes and increasing chemical treatments to combat the toxic gas. The county has also set up a pilot program aimed at reducing odors while continuing to investigate the source.
The situation remains fluid, with Lake County expected to issue a formal notice requiring corrective actions at the Erie facility. Residents are urged to continue documenting any odor events, health symptoms, and report them to the Lake County General Health District or the Ohio EPA.
As the community grapples with this ongoing crisis, the chilling question remains: how many more complaints will it take before decisive action is taken to ensure the safety and health of Mentor residents? The outcome of this investigation will be critical in determining the future of Woodhill subdivision and its residents’ well-being.
