In their first meeting since last month's massive fire at the Northern Metal Recycling plant in Becker, the Becker City Council was met by a small group of upset residents who demanded transparency.
Beth Lee lives near the facility and addressed the council on Wednesday night.
"What we'd really like to see is the city step-up and provide some independent testing that would ensure our safety," Lee said.
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Smoke bellowed from the fire for days after the fire erupted early February 18. It began in a pile of smashed-up vehicles, and could be smelled in parts of the Twin Cities, some 45 miles southeast of Becker. Officials warned the public regarding possible breathing hazards in the smoke and advised those with respiratory issues are asked to stay inside or in a well ventilated area.
The Becker City Council did not publicly address the fire during Wednesday night's meeting.
"You are responsible for the health, safety, and welfare of your citizens," Lee said. "Please do not let your silence define your response. We're all watching and right now we need your leadership more than ever."
Northern Metal Recycling has a plant in Minneapolis and was cited for several code violations by city fire inspectors a week before the Becker fire.