Aluminum Dynamics Cancels Benson Facility After Protests, Recalls

In a significant turn of events, Aluminum Dynamics has decided to abandon its plans to build a recycling plant in Benson, Arizona, a decision reached after considerable local opposition and a political shake-up within the city council. The proposed facility was intended to provide recycled aluminum to major industries, but community resistance and logistical challenges have redirected the company’s focus elsewhere.

The project, which was to be located near sensitive community areas like nursing homes and schools, faced a year-long battle from local residents. Environmental and zoning concerns were at the forefront of the opposition’s argument, led by the nonprofit Health Over Wealth Benson. Misty Bloom, co-founder of the organization, highlighted the plant’s proximity to vital community resources and the San Pedro River as major issues. Bloom stated, “It was right across the street from a nursing home, a mile away from schools and parks and right on the edge of the San Pedro River.”

Despite gathering nearly 4,000 signatures on a petition to halt the development, the community’s efforts initially failed to stop the project. However, dissatisfaction with the handling of zoning and public meeting procedures resulted in a successful recall of three city council members, led by the Committee for a Better Benson.

Tricia Meyers, a spokesperson for Aluminum Dynamics, cited unresolved differences with state officials and urgent production demands as reasons for relocating the facility. In a statement to local media, she explained that these factors influenced the decision to find an alternative site.

The community’s efforts were bolstered through social media initiatives, as Bloom noted, “We were able to rally through the Facebook group and encourage people to write ADEQ; write Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, so the community just showed up in full force and it’s really a community win.” Meanwhile, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes is investigating whether the city council breached open meeting laws during the project discussions.