Weld County commissioners suspend permits for smelly factory

LASALLE, Colo. (AP) -- Weld County commissioners have voted to suspend the permits of a major biogas factory that has been emitting a foul odor.

The Tribune of Greeley reports that commissioners on Monday concluded that Heartland Biogas has broken almost 10 state and county rules, including air quality regulations and permitting infractions.

Heartland came under scrutiny in July after it racked up hundreds of complaints about the smell coming from the factory. Heartland Biogas takes waste ranging from cow manure to expired food and turns it into natural gas and compost.

County commissioners say they will reinstate Heartland's permits once the company comes into compliance.

Heartland officials say they are working hard to address the smell and that they've pledged to spend $3 million to add technology to eliminate the odor.