The Jefferson County Board of County Commissioners will continue the discussion related to concern about the Trulieve marijuana cultivation facility during their regularly scheduled meeting on May 21 at 6 p.m. at the Jefferson County Courthouse Annex, located at 435 W. Walnut Street in Monticello.
Last month, the Board hosted a standing-room-only public meeting where residents, community stakeholders, and representatives from Trulieve shared their perspectives and concerns regarding the ongoing issues surrounding the facility.
Two separate state regulators have raised concerns related to the facility, including issues involving “discharging of water,” “standing water,” and the “presence of excessive pollutants” referenced in a recent Notice of Non-Compliance issued by the Suwannee River Water Management District.
Residents say their concerns go far beyond regulatory issues. Many describe a constant industrial-type noise, some comparing it to standing near an airport jetway, along with persistent skunk-like odors that are affecting daily life, raising concerns about property values and potential health impacts.
Concerns about the facility intensified following complaints from nearby residents and findings by state regulators. In April 2026, the Suwannee River Water Management District issued a notice of non-compliance alleging multiple violations of the company’s Environmental Resource Permit. Inspectors cited unpermitted impervious surfaces, standing water in stormwater ponds, erosion caused by prolonged water discharge, and excessive pollutants leaving the site during pumping events. Nearby residents also reported foul “skunk-like” odors and concerns about declining water quality in nearby creeks and groundwater.
Trulieve has denied causing environmental harm, stating that independent testing showed water quality within normal limits and that the facility remains in compliance with state standards. Regulators continue monitoring the site while residents and local officials call for additional oversight and testing.
Trulieve also argued that its Jefferson County cannabis facility is exempt from certain wastewater discharge permitting requirements because the company considers the operation an agricultural nursery rather than an industrial facility.
Be the first to leave a comment on this article.