A group of Kingdom City residents opposing a potential hog confinement site has decided to seek legal advice, according to a statement sent to the Fulton Sun from Jeff Jones, the group's spokesperson.
Residents were sent a letter in May, notifying them that Eichelberger Farms wanted to build a hog confinement on Horstmeier Farms in Kingdom City off of State Route HH. The confinement could house up to 7,600 sows and 2,720 swine.
The decision came after several factors - a June 10 open forum, responses from Dr. Steve Menke (a veterinarian who has worked with Eichelberger Farms) to the group's 36 questions and, most recently, confirmation from David Eichelberger that he is pursuing the hog confinement, according to the statement.
"Because of this, we have no choice but to seek legal advice and explore all legal options available to protect our health, lifestyles and property rights," the statement reads. "We respect the rights of all landowners to do with their property as they see fit. However, when activities affect those beyond property lines now, and for future generations, it is important that good people stand up for what is right."
Jones told the Fulton Sun that the group has been in contact with three different lawyers within Missouri - each focusing on a different aspect: contracts, environmental concerns and engineering.
Jones said his goal is the same as its been all along - for Eichelberger Farms to take its operation to a less populated area.
"Hopefully the power will be in the people and not the money," Jones said.
According to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Eichelberger Farms still has not turned in a permit application.